The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has confirmed that Arise Television anchor, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, tragically died after jumping from the third floor of her Katampe apartment while trying to escape an armed robbery on the early morning of Monday, September 29.
FCT Commissioner of Police, Ajao Saka Adewale, revealed on Wednesday, October 1, that responding officers discovered the 29-year-old journalist unconscious on the ground floor of her three-storey twin-block residence, consisting of 18 flats near the Gishiri axis of Katampe.
“She was immediately rushed to Maitama General Hospital, where doctors attempted resuscitation using CPR. Unfortunately, she could not be revived,” Adewale stated.
According to police reports, armed intruders attacked the compound around 3 a.m., firing at one of the private security guards on duty. In the ensuing panic, Maduagwu, who lived on the top floor, jumped from her balcony in an attempt to escape.
“The outcome was tragic and deeply unfortunate,” the Police Commissioner said, adding that a team led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Investigation) is actively pursuing the assailants.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike expressed deep sorrow over Maduagwu’s death, describing it as “tragic and painful.” He assured that the Federal Capital Territory Administration would collaborate with security agencies to ensure a thorough investigation.
“She was cut down in her prime. The police will investigate the circumstances surrounding her death and bring the perpetrators to justice,” Wike said in a statement signed by his aide, Lere Olayinka.
FCT Health Mandate Secretary, Dolapo Fasawe, confirmed that Maduagwu arrived at Maitama General Hospital deceased at approximately 4:30 a.m. on Monday.
Arise News described her as “a vibrant voice that engaged and connected with our viewers,” noting that her professionalism and passion left a lasting impression on colleagues and audiences alike.
Maduagwu’s death has reignited concerns about violent crime in Abuja. Investigations by ICIR highlight ongoing armed robberies, kidnappings, cult clashes, and “one-chance” attacks on commuters, despite official claims of improved security.
Residents of Katampe and nearby Mpape have long raised alarms over nighttime robberies and street violence. In April, armed men raided a hotel in Mpape and targeted a driver attached to the Zamfara State governor’s convoy before authorities intervened.
