The federal government has promised to commence a probe into the death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a news anchor and producer with Arise Television.

Maduagwu was killed on Sunday in an armed robbery incident at her residence in the Katampe district of Abuja.

Mohammed Idris, minister of information and national orientation, described Maduagwu’s passing as regrettable.

Idris said the development was a grievous loss, not only to her family and colleagues, but also to the Nigerian media industry and the nation at large.

In a condolence letter addressed to Nduka Obaigbena, chairman of Arise News, Idris said Maduagwu was a “vibrant and dedicated news anchor, consummate lawyer, and a model of professionalism whose work resonated with audiences across Nigeria and beyond”.

“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,” the minister said.

He expressed sadness over the “heinous incident that cut down a promising young journalist in her prime”.

“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,” Idris said.

The minister assured that “on behalf of the federal government”, there would be a “thorough investigation to unravel the circumstances leading to her death”.

Idris extended his “heartfelt sympathy to the parents, siblings, colleagues, and all who knew and loved the late news anchor”, while praying that God grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.