The Nigerian media industry is reeling from the tragic loss of one of its brightest stars. Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, fondly known as “Sommie,” was a 29-year-old ARISE TV news anchor who tragically lost her life in a brutal armed robbery on the morning of Monday, September 29, 2025. Her death has left her family, friends, colleagues, and fans in shock and deep mourning.
Sommie was more than just a news anchor—she was a multi-faceted woman with a remarkable journey. A trained lawyer, former beauty queen, and a passionate journalist, Sommie was known for her elegance, poise, and professionalism both on and off the camera. In 2023, a wedding video featuring Sommie went viral, showcasing not only her beauty but her radiant personality, which captured the hearts of many Nigerians and beyond.
Having joined ARISE TV in 2024, Sommie quickly became a standout personality at the network. Her sharp reporting, deep insights, and vibrant presence made her one of the most beloved anchors on the station. Sommie was known for her commitment to delivering the news with integrity, precision, and grace—traits that earned her the admiration of her colleagues and viewers alike.
@bellzfilms PART A – Sommie you get eye! 😄😄. @Sommie Maduagwu on point 👌🏻 . . Bride: @Adesuwa Omoregbe Videography: Yours Truly ✌🏻 Planner: @Dazzle_U_Events❤️🔥 MC: @mc_yannist DJ: @SAVIORA . . #wedding #weddingday #bride #fyp #foryoupage #bellanaijaweddings #naijaweddings #asoebibella #asoebi @AsoebiLadies @Asoebi Africa @BellaNaija Weddings @Weddings_Africa @Naija Top weddings ♬ original sound – Bellz Films
Her untimely death occurred during a harrowing event. On the fateful morning of September 29, armed robbers stormed her Katampe, Abuja residence. In a bid to escape, Sommie attempted to jump from her second-floor window but tragically sustained fatal injuries. She was rushed to Maitama General Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. The news of her passing sent waves of grief through the Nigerian media industry and her ever-growing fanbase.
In response to the incident, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police immediately launched an investigation into the armed robbery, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu condemned the violence, calling for swift justice. The entire nation has expressed its shock and grief, with many tributes pouring in from fellow journalists, political figures, and fans who cherished Sommie’s work and vibrant personality.
Sommie’s life was full of promise. From her days as a law student to her career as a journalist, she had already achieved so much in such a short time. She represented the best of what Nigerian journalism had to offer—dedication, professionalism, and a deep love for her country. As the news anchor of ARISE TV, Sommie’s voice was a beacon of trust and reliability, and her untimely passing has left a void in the media community that will be hard to fill.
While Sommie’s life was tragically cut short, her legacy will continue to live on. Her contributions to Nigerian journalism, her elegance, and the love she shared with her family and colleagues will never be forgotten. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the impact she made and the inspiration she provided to many young Nigerians striving to follow in her footsteps.
May Somtochukwu Maduagwu’s soul rest in peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and all who were touched by her life and work.