A young Nigerian journalist, Somtochukwu “Sommie” Maduagwu (29), has died in a tragic incident while trying to escape an armed robbery at her Abuja home.  In the early hours of September 29, intruders broke into her apartment building in the Katampe district, prompting her to attempt a desperate leap from the third floor. She was found unconscious and transported to the hospital, but she died shortly thereafter from her injuries.

The police responded by condemning the act as “cruel and senseless,” stating it “has no place in a sane society,” and announced a full investigation into her death. Commissioner of Police Ajao Adewale declared that both intelligence and operational resources have been mobilized to trace and apprehend those responsible.  Authorities have also called on the public to assist with information.

Arise News, her employer, issued a heartfelt tribute, calling her a “vibrant voice” and emphasizing her roles not only as a journalist, anchor, and producer but also as a trained lawyer and supportive colleague. Condolences poured in from across Nigeria. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, President Bola Tinubu, state governors, and media organizations all called for a swift and thorough investigation and for justice to be served. The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) also demanded a forensic probe into the circumstances of her death, describing it as a barometer of growing insecurity in the nation.

Her death has sparked widespread grief and debate in Nigeria, highlighting ongoing concerns over security in the country—even in urban areas believed to be relatively safe