Guild of Editors mourns ARISE News reporter killed in Abuja robbery

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has expressed deep sorrow over the killing of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a news anchor and reporter with ARISE News Channel, who was murdered during an armed robbery attack at her residence in Katampe, Abuja.

In a statement signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild described Maduagwu as a promising journalist who embodied the future of the profession in Nigeria.

“By Somtochukwu’s untimely death, journalism has lost not just a good professional who was committed to shedding light on important issues and giving voice to the voiceless, but also one who represented the future of journalism in the country,” the statement read.

The Guild noted that the incident underscores the growing insecurity across the country, with Nigerians increasingly living in fear due to armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, insurgency, and other violent crimes.

“We demand action from the government to address the root causes of insecurity and take measures to ensure the safety and security of all citizens. We demand that those responsible for Somtochukwu’s death be fished out by security agencies and made to face the full weight of the law,” NGE said.

While commiserating with ARISE News and the wider media industry, the Guild called on journalists to draw inspiration from Maduagwu’s commitment to excellence despite challenges.

“May the memory of this vibrant journalist be a blessing to all who knew her,” the statement concluded.