Tag: Somtochukwu Maduagwu

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Nigeria @ 65: FCT one of Nigeria’s safest places – Wike

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared Abuja one of the safest cities in Nigeria, crediting both security measures by the administration and the commitment of residents to peace and harmony.

Speaking in his Independence Day anniversary message on Wednesday, Wike commended residents for intentionally living in peace and harmony, “in spite of a few distractions.”

He stressed that Abuja’s relative calm was not accidental, but the result of deliberate efforts by the government and the cooperation of citizens.

“Residents have also remained intentional about living together in peace and harmony in spite of a few distractions.

Consequently, the FCT has become one of the most peaceful places to reside in the entire country.

“This is not only due to the security measures we have put in place, but also because of zero tolerance of residents for insecurity, and their readiness to promote peace in every part of the Territory.”

While commending the capital’s record, Wike urged residents not to be complacent. He assured that his administration, working with law enforcement agencies, was committed to ensuring security and law and order at all times.

“I, therefore, appeal to all residents to go about their lawful businesses, to be watchful over their neighbourhoods and to report all suspicious movements to the law enforcement agents.”

The Minister also reminded residents that the FCT would once again set the pace for Nigeria’s election season, when it holds its Area Council elections in February 2026.

He appealed for calm, orderly campaigns and urged residents to choose leaders who had the interest of their people at heart.

“Come February 2026, the FCT will kick off the electioneering process in the country as residents head to the polls to elect new chairmen and councillors for the six area councils.

“I implore residents to go about campaigning for candidates of their choice in a peaceful and orderly manner. I also encourage everyone to come out en masse when the time comes, to vote for leaders who evidently have their interest at heart; leaders who have vision and capacity to attract development and prosperity to the people,” he said.

Wike’s comments on security in the FCT follows recent news of the death of 29-year-old Somtochukwu Maduagwu, a reporter and News anchor with Arise Television News, who died on Monday, after jumping from the third floor of her apartment building to escape armed robbers.

The Minister has pledged support for Police investigation, describing her death as tragic and unacceptable. (Punch)

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Sanwo-Olu, NGE mourn Arise TV anchor

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the ARISE Television News Anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, who died during an armed robbery attack at her residence in Katampe, Abuja, on Monday.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu described the late 29-year-old Maduagwu, fondly called “Sommie” by colleagues, as a fast-rising star in broadcast journalism.

The governor noted that the deceased discharged her duties diligently and passionately while on air.

He also commiserated with the deceased’s family, friends, colleagues, and the management and staff of ARISE News, especially the founder, Nduka Obaigbena, over the tragic loss.

The condolence message read in part, “On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, we commiserate with ARISE News over the death of one of its anchors, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu. She was a diligent and thorough professional.

“Her death was a big shock considering the circumstances, but we take solace in the Almighty God that she lived a fulfilled life and made positive impacts in the media industry.

“She will be greatly missed by her family, friends, associates, colleagues, and the entire ARISE News team. I pray that God will comfort everyone who was close to her and grant her eternal rest.

“My 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.”

Also, the Nigerian Guild of Editors has expressed sadness over the death of Maduagwu.

In a statement signed on Tuesday by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the guild described Somtochukwu’s death as a huge loss to journalism in Nigeria.

“By Somtochukwu’s untimely death, journalism has lost not just a good professional who was committed to shedding light on important issues and giving voice to the voiceless but also one who represented the future of journalism in the country,” the guild said.

The editors noted that the incident underscored the dangers posed by insecurity in the country.

“The loss of this dedicated journalist from an armed robbery incident is a stark reminder of the dangers Nigerians face daily in their homes and on the street. We cannot help but reflect on the issue of insecurity that plagues our nation. The increasing frequency of armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, insurgency and other violent crimes has created an environment of fear and uncertainty for both citizens and professionals like journalists,” the statement added.

The NGE called on the government to address insecurity and bring those behind the reporter’s death to justice.

“We demand action from the government to address the root causes of insecurity and take measures to ensure the safety and security of all citizens. We demand that those responsible for Somtochukwu’s death be fished out by security agencies and made to face the full weight of the law,” it said.

The guild also commiserated with Arise News and the journalist’s colleagues.

“At this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with Arise News and the broader journalism community. We pray that the memory of this talented young journalist who died at her prime inspires excellence in journalism, even in the face of adversity. May the memory of this vibrant journalist be a blessing to all who knew her.” (Punch)