The Nigeria Police Force has presented eleven individuals in court at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Jabi, Abuja, for their alleged involvement in the killing of ARISE News journalist, Barrister Somtochukwu Maduagwu, and a security guard, Mr. Barnabas Danlami. The pair were reportedly killed during a robbery incident in the city.
The suspects appeared before Justice Mohammed Idris on Wednesday and each pleaded not guilty to a total of nine charges. These charges encompass allegations of criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, and murder.
The fatal incident is reported to have occurred on September 29, 2025, at the Unique Apartments in Katampe Extension, Mabushi. According to reports, armed assailants attacked the residential complex, leading to the deaths of Ms. Maduagwu, who served as an anchor, reporter, and producer for ARISE News, and Mr. Danlami, who was on duty as the security guard at the time.
The eleven individuals arraigned are identified as Shamsu Hassan, Sani Sirajo, Hassan Isah, Abubakar Alkamu, Abdulsalam Saleh, Suleiman Badamasi, and Zaharadeen Mohammed. Additionally, Musa Umar, also known as “Small,” Mashkur Jamil, Suleiman Sani, and Abubakar Usman are among those facing charges.
Following their pleas, the court ordered that all the defendants be held in custody at the Kuje Correctional Facility.
The next court date for definite hearing has been scheduled for February 9, 10, and 12, 2026.
The tragic killing of the ARISE News journalist has sparked significant outrage among media professionals and civil society organizations, amplifying demands for accountability and improved safety measures for journalists in the country.
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