Abuja, Nigeria (October 9, 2025) — The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the arrest of twelve suspected armed robbers in connection with the brutal attack and murder of Arise News anchor, Somtochukwu Christella Maduagwu, and a security guard, Barnabas Danlami, at the Unique Apartments in Abuja.
The incident, which sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s media and security circles, occurred in the early hours of Monday, October 6, when armed men reportedly stormed the residential complex located in the highbrow Lokogoma area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Police authorities said the suspects were apprehended following an intensive intelligence-led operation launched by the FCT Police Command, with support from the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) and local vigilante units.
Police Confirm Arrests and Recovery of Weapons
Confirming the development on Thursday, the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, stated that the arrests followed “painstaking investigation, coordinated surveillance, and actionable intelligence that traced the suspects’ movement across multiple locations in Abuja and Nasarawa State.”
Adejobi disclosed that the police recovered several dangerous weapons and stolen items during the operation, including two locally made pistols, a pump-action rifle, mobile phones, jewelry, and electronic devices believed to have been stolen from the crime scene.
“All twelve suspects are currently in custody and undergoing intensive interrogation. Preliminary findings link them directly to the attack that led to the unfortunate deaths of Ms. Maduagwu and Mr. Danlami,” Adejobi said.
“The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed that the case be transferred to the Force Headquarters Homicide Section for further investigation and speedy prosecution.”
How the Attack Happened
According to eyewitness accounts, the armed robbers gained entry into the compound through a breached section of the perimeter fence around 1:30 a.m. They reportedly overpowered the security guard, Barnabas Danlami, before proceeding to force their way into several apartments.
Residents told reporters that the robbers moved from one flat to another, demanding cash, phones, and valuables. Maduagwu was allegedly shot when she tried to raise an alarm or flee.
“She was in her living room when we heard her scream. By the time help came, it was too late,” a neighbor who asked not to be named said, describing the incident as “a night of horror.”
The 33-year-old journalist was rushed to a nearby private hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. Danlami, the security guard on duty, was also killed during the attack.
Media Industry in Mourning
News of Maduagwu’s death has plunged Nigeria’s media industry into mourning. She was a respected broadcaster known for her sharp intellect, professionalism, and commitment to ethical journalism.
Her colleagues at Arise News Channel described her as “a bright and fearless journalist whose passion for truth-telling and public accountability inspired many.”
In an official statement, Arise News management expressed deep sorrow over her death, calling it a “devastating loss to the Nigerian media family.”
“Somtochukwu was not just a colleague but a beacon of excellence in journalism. Her passing under such tragic circumstances is heartbreaking,” the statement read.
“We urge the police to ensure that those responsible for this barbaric act face the full weight of the law.”
Condemnation and Calls for Justice
Public outrage has followed the killing, with journalists, human rights activists, and professional bodies demanding swift justice.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the International Press Centre (IPC) have both condemned the incident, describing it as a “grievous attack on press freedom and human dignity.”
“Journalists must not become targets of violence while performing their lawful duties,” NUJ President, Chris Isiguzo, said. “We expect the police to pursue this investigation to its logical conclusion and bring every perpetrator to justice.”
Prominent figures, including Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, have also expressed condolences, assuring that the government will not tolerate rising insecurity in the capital.
Wike, in a statement through his spokesperson, said the FCT Administration would strengthen night patrols and security surveillance around residential areas, especially private estates and hotels.
Investigation Expands: More Arrests Possible
Police sources hinted that the ongoing investigation may lead to additional arrests as detectives work to uncover the full network behind the attack.
A senior officer at the FCT Command, who requested anonymity because he was not authorized to speak publicly, said investigators believe the group may be part of a larger robbery syndicate that has carried out similar attacks across the city in recent months.
“We have recovered CCTV footage and call logs that are helping us piece together the movements of the suspects before and after the incident,” the source said. “We are confident this case will be concluded soon.”
The officer added that the police are collaborating with telecommunications companies and security agencies to trace additional suspects and recover more stolen property.
A City on Edge
The tragic killing has reignited concerns over rising violent crime in Abuja, particularly in residential neighborhoods once considered secure. Residents in areas such as Lokogoma, Lugbe, Gwarinpa, and Kubwa have repeatedly reported incidents of armed robbery, burglary, and car theft in recent months.
Security analysts have urged the government to implement more proactive community policing strategies, deploy modern surveillance technologies, and strengthen intelligence sharing between the police and residents.
“The Abuja metropolis has grown faster than its security infrastructure,” said Dr. Kabir Adamu, a security expert and Managing Director of Beacon Consulting. “Without coordinated urban security management, these kinds of attacks may continue.”
Final Farewell
Meanwhile, preparations are underway for Maduagwu’s burial. Family sources say a memorial service will be held in Abuja, followed by her interment in her hometown in Anambra State.
Friends and colleagues have continued to pay tribute to her life and legacy on social media, describing her as “fearless,” “brilliant,” and “dedicated to her craft.”
One of her closest friends, fellow broadcaster Tolu Adeyemi, wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“Somto was light — sharp, kind, and endlessly curious. Nigeria failed you, but your work will continue to inspire.”
Police Promise Swift Justice
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has assured Nigerians that justice will be served swiftly. He also extended condolences to the families of the victims and promised to intensify security operations in the FCT.
“The Force will not rest until every person connected to this crime is brought to book. We are determined to restore public confidence and make Abuja safe for all,” Egbetokun said.
As the investigation continues, Nigerians are left grappling with a painful reminder of the growing threats to personal safety, even in the nation’s capital.
For now, the arrest of twelve suspects offers a glimmer of hope — that the perpetrators of this senseless act will finally face justice, and that Somtochukwu Christella Maduagwu’s death will not be in vain.
