Wike Commiserates With Arise News, Vows Justice For Slain Anchor

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Arise News anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, describing her passing as “tragic and painful.”

Wike, in a statement on Tuesday, extended his condolences to the management and staff of Arise News, as well as to the family and friends of the deceased. He assured that security agencies, particularly the Police, would intensify efforts to unravel the circumstances surrounding her death and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

According to his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the minister prayed for the repose of the late broadcaster’s soul, noting that her death was not just a blow to the Arise News family, but also a huge loss to the Nigerian media industry and the nation at large.

“I feel pained that such a wonderful soul could be cut down in its prime. It is sad!” Wike was quoted as saying.

The Federal Capital Territory Administration’s Mandate Secretary on Health, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, disclosed that Maduagwu was brought into Maitama General Hospital dead at about 4:30 a.m. on Monday. She added that a preliminary medical report would be made available to aid police investigations.

While commiserating with the Chairman of Arise News, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, as well as Maduagwu’s family and friends, Wike prayed that God would grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.