I Was the First to Be Attacked — Late Arise TV Anchor’s Neighbour Recounts Ordeal

By Sulaimon Popoola

A close neighbour of the late Arise Television presenter and producer, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, has recounted the harrowing experience of being the first victim attacked during the armed robbery that claimed the broadcast journalist’s life in Abuja.

Somtochukwu, fondly known as Sommie by friends and colleagues, was killed in the early hours of Monday, after armed assailants invaded her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja.

The 29-year-old broadcast journalist, who had also trained as a lawyer, was celebrated for her passion, dedication, and professionalism at Arise News, where she anchored, reported, and produced programmes.

One of her neighbours, Sani Yusuf, who lives in the same block, revealed that he was the first person attacked when the robbers struck.

Still shaken, Sani took to his X account, describing the trauma, saying he would share full details when emotionally ready.

“This happened at the block I live in. I was the first victim to be attacked. Right in the heart of Abuja, man. I don’t wish anyone the things I witnessed. When I’m ready, I’ll share details. For now, may the souls of the departed find peace,” he wrote.

The Nigeria Police have since reportedly launched an investigation, though no suspects have yet been apprehended. Meanwhile, Arise News described Somtochukwu’s death as “a devastating blow,” paying tribute to her as “a cherished member of the Arise News family” and calling for the “speedy investigation, apprehension and prosecution” of the culprits.

The killing has once again raised public concern over the worsening state of insecurity in Nigeria’s capital and across the country.

In recent months, Abuja has witnessed a disturbing rise in armed robbery and kidnapping cases, even in supposedly secure areas.

Civil society activists and commentators, including human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, have pointed to lapses in security response.

Reacting in a post on his X handle, Sowore lamented that poor police response and lack of emergency support contributed to her death.

“I have just been made aware of the tragic death of an Arise NewsTV anchor, producer and writer Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu ‘Sommie’ who was murdered by armed robbers earlier today at her Katampe residence in Abuja.

“The lack of adequate police intervention and emergency support in preventing such a horrific crime is a major cause for concern and makes it impossible to overlook the fact she could have lived. May her soul rest in power!” he wrote.

This trend of violent attacks is not limited to Abuja. Lagos has also recorded several high-profile robbery incidents, with Nigerian celebrities like Lil Kesh and Qdot reportedly attacked in recent weeks.

Reports by the World Bank and independent security think-tanks such as SBM (Security, Business and Market) Intelligence have linked the surge in violent crime to Nigeria’s worsening economic decline, noting that soaring inflation, record unemployment, and rising poverty are fueling desperation among the youth. Analysts warn that without urgent reforms to revive the economy and create opportunities, the country risks further escalation in banditry, kidnappings, and other violent crimes.