By Mnena Iyorkegh, Abuja
Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has described the death of Arise News anchor, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, as regrettable and a grievous loss not only to her immediate family and the Arise News team, but also to the Nigerian media and the nation.
This condolence was conveyed in a statement signed by Rabiu Ibrahim, the Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation.
In a letter of condolence to the Chairman of the Arise News channel, Nduka Obaigbena, Idris, stated that: , “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 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.”
The Information Minister, noted that 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 further 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.
Olusola Akintonde