Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy & Development (FENRAD) was deeply shocked and outraged by the brutal murder of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a young journalist with ARISE News Channel, who was killed during an armed robbery attack at her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja in the early yesterday.

According to the Executive Director, FENRAD, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, Somtochukwu—known affectionately as Sommie by colleagues and friends—was just 29 years old.

“Her tragic death is not only a personal loss to her family and the media industry, but also a national tragedy that underscores the rapid deterioration of security across Nigeria, including in the Federal Capital Territory, which should be the most secure part of the country.

“This cold-blooded killing, taking place at the very heart of Nigeria’s seat of power, raises grave questions about the effectiveness of the country’s security infrastructure and the political will of those tasked with safeguarding lives and property. If a journalist—whose work is to inform and hold power accountable—can be killed so brazenly in her home within Abuja, then nowhere in Nigeria can be considered safe.

“This is not an isolated case. It echoes the earlier killing of Emeka Ugwumadu, also in the FCT, and countless other Nigerians who have fallen victim to rampant violence, banditry, kidnappings, and lawlessness from Sokoto to Enugu, Borno to Bayelsa. It is yet another grim indicator that Nigeria is teetering on the brink of a failed state, where the most fundamental responsibility of government, the protection of human life, is no longer guaranteed,” he lamented.

FENRAD joined millions of Nigerians in mourning the loss of Somtochukwu, who was not only a reporter, producer, and anchor but also a trained lawyer and a bright symbol of youth aspiration and professionalism in the media space.

“Her killing is an irreparable loss to the journalism profession and to a nation desperate for young leaders of vision, courage, and integrity.

“We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, colleagues at ARISE News, and all who knew and loved her. But condolences are not enough.

FENRAD is calling for a full, independent, and transparent investigation into the murder of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu.

“The immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible, an urgent security audit of the Federal Capital Territory and reform of Nigeria’s failing internal security mechanisms and the protection of journalists and media practitioners, who are increasingly becoming targets in a shrinking civic space.

“The Federal Government, particularly the President and Commander-in-Chief, must rise to the occasion. Nigerians deserve to live without fear, and journalists must be free to do their work without paying with their lives.

“Let Somtochukwu’s death not become just another statistic. Let it be a turning point. Until justice is served and the streets are safe, we will not relent,” he stated.