SCM Staff Writer I Tuesday, Sept 30, 2025
LAGOS, Nigeria — The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of ARISE Television News Anchor, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, who was reportedly killed during an armed robbery attack at her residence in Katampe, Abuja.
In a statement released on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the late Maduagwu, who was fondly called “Sommie” by her colleagues, as a “fast rising star” in the broadcast profession. The Governor noted that she discharged her duty “diligently and passionately” while on air.
The 29-year-old anchor’s passing has sent shockwaves through the media industry, and Governor Sanwo-Olu extended his condolences to the deceased’s family, friends, and colleagues. He also commiserated with the management and staff of ARISE News, specifically mentioning the founder, Mr. Nduka Obaigbena.
“On behalf of the government and the people of Lagos State, we commiserate with ARISE News over the death of one of its news anchors, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, who was reportedly killed during an armed robbery attack in her house at Abuja,” the Governor stated.
Sanwo-Olu described Maduagwu as a “diligent and thoroughbred professional,” stating that her death was a “big shock considering the way she was killed.”
He urged those mourning to “take solace in the Almighty God that she lived a fulfilled life and made positive impacts in the media industry.”
The Governor concluded his statement with a prayer for the bereaved: “She will be greatly missed by her family, friends, associates and colleagues and the entire management and staff of ARISE News. I pray that God will comfort everyone that was close to her and grant her eternal rest. My prayers and thoughts are with her immediate family and the Chairman of ARISE TV, Mr. Nduka Obaigbena. May God grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”
