Somtochukwu Maduagwu’s death a huge loss to Nigerian media, says Information Minister

The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Arise News anchor, Ms. Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu.

He described her passing as regrettable and a profound loss not only to her family and colleagues at Arise News but also to the Nigerian media industry and the nation as a whole.

In a letter of condolence he signed and addressed to the Chairman of the Arise News channel, Chief Nduka Obaigbena, Idris, stated, “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, who by every account was a vibrant and a dedicated news anchor, consummate lawyer, and a model of professionalism whose work resonated with audiences across Nigeria and beyond.”

Idris said he was saddened by the “heinous incident that cut down a promising young journalist in her prime,” adding that “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 gave assurances for a swift investigation to unravel the circumstances leading to the death of the late news anchor.

The Minister extended his “heartfelt sympathy to the parents, siblings, colleagues, and all who knew and loved the late news anchor,” and prayed that God grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.