The Nigerian Bar Association Women’s Forum (NBAWF) has expressed profound grief and outrage over the brutal killing of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a 29-year-old lawyer, celebrated Arise News anchor, and Coordinator of the NBAWF Young Lawyers Committee, who was murdered during an armed robbery at her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025.
Somtochukwu, fondly called Sommie, was a rising star in both the legal and media communities. A news anchor, reporter, and producer at Arise News Channel, she was widely admired for her professionalism and captivating on-air presence. The station, in a statement on its official platform, described her as “a vibrant voice that engaged and connected with viewers,” while confirming that the Nigerian Police have launched an investigation into the robbery that claimed her life.
In a statement signed by Huwaila Muhammad Ibrahim, Chairperson of the NBAWF, the Forum condemned the killing as a “senseless and reprehensible act” and called for a full-scale, transparent, and thorough investigation to identify and prosecute all perpetrators. “Somtochukwu’s untimely death is not only a painful loss to her family, colleagues, and the media community, but also to the legal profession and the entire nation, which has been robbed of her immense potential and contributions,” the Forum stated.
The NBAWF urged security agencies to act swiftly to ensure justice is served, stressing that only decisive action can restore public confidence in the rule of law. Tributes have continued to pour in from across the legal profession, the media industry, civil society, and the general public, reflecting the profound impact she had on both journalism and law.
The Forum extended heartfelt condolences to Somtochukwu’s parents, siblings, friends, and colleagues at Arise News, pledging solidarity with all who mourn her. “May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace, and may justice be swift and uncompromising,” the statement concluded.
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