Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The League of Anambra Journalists in Abuja (LAJA) has received with deep shock and immense grief the devastating news of the untimely death of our dear colleague, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, a dedicated journalist with Arise News, who was brutally killed by suspected armed robbers in her residence on 29th September 2025. This was contained in a statement jointly signed by Princess Ekwy Ajide, interim Secretary of LAJA and Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo, interim President of LAJA.
The statement reads in part: “Somtochukwu was not only a shining light in the newsroom but also a passionate voice for truth, justice, and accountability.
“Her tragic passing is not just a personal loss to her family, friends, and colleagues, but a huge blow to the Nigerian media fraternity and the nation at large.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, colleagues at Arise News, friends, and all who had the privilege of working with her.
“Words cannot capture the pain and sorrow of losing such a vibrant, young professional in so cruel and senseless a manner.
“LAJA strongly condemns this heinous act and calls on the Nigerian government and security agencies to leave no stone unturned in fishing out the perpetrators of this wicked crime and bringing them swiftly to justice.
“Anything less would be an injustice to the memory of Somtochukwu and an affront to the ideals of justice and human dignity.
“This tragedy once again highlights the precarious conditions under which journalists in Nigeria live and work.
“Journalists, who are the conscience of society and play an indispensable role in strengthening democracy, must not be left defenceless in the face of growing insecurity.
“Their safety and protection should be a matter of urgent national priority.
“Somtochukwu’s light has been cruelly extinguished, but her dedication and courage will continue to inspire us. May her soul rest in perfect peace, “it also added.
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