Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, and the ex-Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, have expressed sadness over the demise of Arise News anchor, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu.
Naija News reported that Sommie, as she is fondly called, tragically passed away in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025, following a robbery incident at her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja.
In a statement via 𝕏, Peter Obi emphasised that the heartbreaking incident highlights the urgent need for the country to prioritise the safety and security of every citizen.
He wrote, “Rest in Peace, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu.
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“I am deeply saddened by the tragic and untimely death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a brilliant young anchor with Arise News, who was killed in the most painful circumstances during a robbery attack in Abuja.
“At only 29, Somtochukwu had already distinguished herself as a gifted broadcaster and trained lawyer whose voice engaged, informed, and inspired many. Her loss is not only a personal tragedy to her family and colleagues but also a huge blow to journalism and to our nation, which continues to lose its brightest to insecurity and violence.
“This heartbreaking incident once again highlights the urgent need for us as a country to prioritise the safety and security of every citizen. No Nigerian should go to bed fearful of what the night may bring, or lose their life in such senseless ways.
“My thoughts and prayers are with her grieving family, the Arise News family, and all who mourn her. May her soul rest in peace, and may we, as a nation, work harder to build a country where lives are valued and protected.”
Similarly, Atiku expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and the management of Arise News.
He wrote, “I wish to express my deepest condolences to the family of Ms Somtochukwu Maduagwu, an Arise TV newscaster who was killed in an armed robbery attack in Abuja. My condolences also go to the management and staff of @ARISEtv. It is my prayer that the family, friends and colleagues be comforted by this loss at such a very young age.”
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