Somtochukwu Maduagwu’s family, colleagues, and friends prepare to honor the late journalist as police confirm 12 arrests linked to her killing in Abuja.
The family of late ARISE News Anchor Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu has announced funeral arrangements following her tragic death during a robbery in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, on September 29, 2025.
According to the family, the rites will begin on October 12, 2025 with a Night of Tributes at the THISDAY Dome in Abuja, starting at 6 p.m. A Service of Songs will be held on October 15 at Corpus Christi Cathedral, Kaduna Street, Port Harcourt, while the final burial will take place on October 18, 2025, at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Agulu, Anambra State. A funeral service is scheduled for 11 a.m. before interment.
Maduagwu’s passing has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s media community, where she was known for her poise, intellect, and professionalism on air. Colleagues and viewers have continued to pay tribute to the young journalist, describing her as a rising star in broadcasting whose career was cut short far too soon.
Meanwhile, authorities say they have made “significant progress” in the investigation into her killing. The Defense Headquarters confirmed that 12 suspects have been arrested in connection with the armed robbery that claimed Maduagwu’s life and that of a security guard, Barnabas Danlami, at Unique Apartment in Gishiri Village, Katampe District, Abuja.
Read Also: Somtochukwu—Police Arrest 12 Over Killing Of Arise TV Staff
According to the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, the arrests followed an intensive manhunt ordered by the Commissioner of Police. One of the suspects reportedly confessed to driving away in the victims’ white Honda CR-V, while others admitted receiving ₦200,000 each from the proceeds of the crime.
Items recovered from the suspects include a fabricated AK-47 rifle, 36 rounds of 9mm ammunition, a locally made pistol, a pump-action gun, two live cartridges, four mobile phones, two sharp knives, a cutlass, and nine torchlights allegedly used during the operation.
Further arrests were made on October 8, 2025, when other members of the gang were apprehended during an attempted robbery in the high-brow Maitama area of Abuja. Police officials said all suspects have confessed to their involvement, while efforts continue to track others still at large.
Somtochukwu Maduagwu’s funeral is expected to draw prominent figures from the media, politics, and civil society as the nation bids farewell to a journalist remembered for her warmth, curiosity, and commitment to truth.
