The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has lamented the circumstances that led to the death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a talented news anchor and reporter with Arise News, who lost her life in a senseless armed robbery incident at her Katampe, Abuja residence.
“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 Guild said in a statement signed by its President, Eze Anaba and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh.
The NGE stated that the loss of this dedicated journalist from armed robbery incident is a stark reminder of the dangers Nigerians face daily in their homes and on the street.
According to them, we cannot help but reflect on the issue of insecurity that plagues our nation. The increasing frequency of armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, insurgency and other violent crimes has created an environment of fear and uncertainty for both citizens and professionals like journalists.
It therefore demanded for action from the government to address the root causes of insecurity and take measures to ensure the safety and security of all citizens adding that those responsible for Somtochukwu’s death be fished out by security agencies and made to face the full weight of the law.
At this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with Arise News and the broader journalism community.
We pray that the memory of this talented young journalist who died at her prime inspire excellence in journalism, even in the face of adversity.
May the memory of this vibrant journalist be a blessing to all who knew her.
