The International Press Centre (IPC) has demanded a full investigation and justice over the tragic de@th of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a 29-year-old anchor and producer with Arise News Channel, who lost her life during an armed robbery attack at her Abuja residence on September 29, 2025.

In a statement issued by its Communications Officer, Olutoyin Ayoade, the IPC described the incident as deeply troubling, stressing the urgent need for accountability from both security and healthcare institutions.

According to emerging details, armed robbers stormed the six-flat apartment complex where Maduagwu, fondly called “Sommie”, lived, dispossessing residents of valuables. Witnesses revealed that despite being alerted, police failed to arrive on time.

Terrified by the chaos, Maduagwu attempted to escape before the robbers reached her flat. She jumped from her window and sustained severe injuries. Reports further indicated that although she was still alive when police eventually arrived, she later d!ed after being denied immediate medical attention at Maitama District Hospital, as staff allegedly demanded identification before treatment.

Family friend Kaanayo Nwachukwu described the incident as “an avoidable tragedy and a failure of the Nigerian system.”

Reacting, IPC’s Executive Director, Lanre Arogundade, condemned the incident and demanded justice:

“We are deeply saddened by the de@th of journalist Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, and we demand a thorough, independent investigation, as well as the prompt prosecution of the perpetrators.”

He warned that failure to act would embolden criminals and further endanger both citizens and journalists.

The Centre also called for urgent reforms to Nigeria’s emergency response and healthcare systems, urging Maitama District Hospital to publicly explain the delay in treatment and to implement safeguards against future lapses.

Maduagwu’s passing comes just weeks after the killing of Ibadan-based journalist Peter Ojo in August 2025. IPC’s 2024 report recorded 45 attacks on journalists and 3 on media outlets, many of which remain unresolved. Since 1992, at least 22 journalists in Nigeria have reportedly d!ed under suspicious circumstances without conclusive investigations.

The organisation urged the Nigeria Police Force and the FCT Command to ensure a transparent probe, while also calling on media bodies, civil society, and professional groups to push for justice in line with Nigeria’s Constitution and international human rights conventions.

IPC extended condolences to Maduagwu’s family, Arise News, colleagues, and friends, stressing that her tragic passing must not go unpunished.