ABUJA, Sept 30 (The African Portal) – Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has condemned the killing of Arise News anchor Somtochukwu Maduagwu, who died following a robbery attack at her home in Katampe, Abuja.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president described the late journalist, fondly known as Sommie, as “a promising professional whose life was cut short in a cruel and condemnable manner.”
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu receives with deep sorrow the news of the tragic passing of Ms Somtochukwu ‘Sommie’ Maduagwu, a brilliant news anchor with Arise News Television, who was killed during an attack by robbers at her residence in Katampe, Abuja,” the statement said.
Tinubu extended his condolences to Maduagwu’s family, the management and staff of Arise News, and Nigeria’s media community. He said the tragic loss was not only personal to her family but also to the nation.
The president has directed security and law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation. “Security and law enforcement agencies should conduct a quick and thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice without delay,” the statement said.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, Tinubu said his government would continue to strengthen measures to combat crime.
Arise News announced on Monday that Maduagwu, 29, died following a violent armed robbery at her residence.
However, colleagues Ojy Okpe and Reuben Abati told viewers on Tuesday’s edition of The Morning Show that her death was “preventable.” They said she sustained injuries during the robbery but was later denied medical attention.
Okpe said the journalist reportedly jumped from her home after learning that 14 armed robbers had invaded the building.
