Death of Arise News presenter a great loss, says Information Minister

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has described the death of Arise News anchor, Ms. Somtochukwu Maduagwu, as deeply regrettable.

This was contained in a condolence letter addressed to the Chairman of Arise News Channel, Chief Nduka Obaigbena, and released on Tuesday in Abuja by the Minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Malam Rabiu Ibrahim.

Idris said Maduagwu’s passing was not only a painful loss to her family and colleagues but also to the Nigerian media industry and the nation at large.

“I write to convey our deepest condolences to you and the entire Arise News family on the shocking and untimely death of your esteemed anchor, Ms. Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu. By every account, she was a vibrant and dedicated news anchor, consummate lawyer, and a model of professionalism whose work resonated with audiences across Nigeria and beyond.

“I am saddened by the heinous incident that cut down a promising young journalist in her prime. Ms. Somtochukwu’s tragic death is a grievous loss not only to the Arise News family but to the Nigerian media fraternity and indeed the nation,” he stated.

The Minister assured that a swift and thorough investigation would be carried out to unravel the circumstances surrounding her death.

He also extended his condolences to Maduagwu’s parents, siblings, colleagues, and all who knew and loved her, praying that God grants them the strength to bear the loss.

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed that investigations into the incident are already underway.