The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has confirmed the killing of an Arise News Channel anchor, Ms. Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, during an armed robbery attack at her residence in Katampe, Abuja, on Monday.
FCT Commissioner of Police, Ajao Adewale, described the attack as “a cruel and senseless act that has no place in a sane society,” while commiserating with the family, colleagues, and the media community.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Police spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh said the Commissioner has ordered a discreet and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“The FCT Commissioner of Police extends his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Ms. Maduagwu, who tragically lost her life in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025. The Command remains fully committed to ensuring that justice is served,” the statement read in part.
Adewale also directed the deployment of intelligence and operational teams to identify and arrest those behind the crime. He urged residents to support police efforts by providing credible information and raising timely alarms over suspicious activities to prevent further attacks.
The murder adds to a troubling history of media professionals losing their lives in robbery-related incidents within the FCT.
On June 14, 2024, Liberty Radio staff member Azubuko Nwakama was attacked and robbed at Panteka Market in Mpape. After over a year of investigations, police announced the arrest of three suspects in August 2025.
Earlier in January 2019, Radio Nigeria journalist Chris Edoga was stabbed during a home invasion in Gwagwalada and died from his injuries the following day. Similarly, on September 1, 2019, an AIT journalist was killed by a “one-chance” robbery syndicate in Abuja.
