ARISE TV Anchor Killed in Abuja Home Robbery, Police Launch Investigation

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has confirmed the tragic death of Arise News Channel anchor, Ms. Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, who was killed during an armed robbery at her residence in Katampe, Abuja, on Monday, September 29.

FCT Commissioner of Police, Ajao Adewale, described the attack as a “cruel and senseless act that has no place in a sane society” and extended condolences to the family, colleagues, and the media community.

In a statement on Tuesday, Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, said the CP had ordered a discreet and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing. Adewale also directed the deployment of intelligence and operational units to track down and apprehend the perpetrators.

“The FCT commissioner of police has extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Ms. Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a news anchor, reporter, and producer with Arise News Channel, who tragically lost her life during an armed robbery incident at her residence in Katampe,” the statement partly read.

He urged residents to support the investigation by providing timely information and raising prompt alarms in suspicious situations to prevent similar incidents.

This is not the first time media professionals have fallen victim to violent robberies in the FCT. On June 14, 2024, Azubuko Nwakama of Liberty Radio was attacked at Panteka Market in Mpape. After more than a year of investigation, three suspects were arrested in August 2025.

In January 2019, Radio Nigeria journalist Chris Edoga was fatally stabbed during a robbery at his Gwagwalada home. Similarly, on September 1, 2019, an AIT journalist in Abuja was killed by a “one-chance” robbery syndicate.

The FCT Police Command has assured that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure justice is served.