Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has extended condolences to the Maduagwu family following the death of Arise News anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu.
The minister described her passing as a major loss not only to her family and the Arise News team but also to the Nigerian media 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, who by every account was a vibrant and dedicated news anchor, consummate lawyer, and a model of professionalism whose work resonated with audiences across Nigeria and beyond,” he stated in a condolence letter addressed to Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman of Arise News.
He expressed sadness over the “heinous incident that cut down a promising young journalist in her prime.”
The minister further stressed 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 also assured that there would be a “swift investigation” to uncover the circumstances surrounding her death.
“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,” a statement by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, added.