The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arraigned eleven suspects before the FCT High Court sitting in Jabi over the murder of ARISE News journalist, Ms. Somtochukwu Christella Maduagwu, and a security guard, Mr. Barnabas Danlami.
The suspects were arraigned on Wednesday, 21 January 2026, in connection with the fatal robbery attack at Unique Apartments, Katampe Extension, Mabushi, Abuja, which occurred on 29 September 2025.
Those charged included Shamsu Hassan, Sani Sirajo, Hassan Isah, Abubakar Alkamu, Abdulsalam Saleh, Suleiman Badamasi, Zaharadeen Mohammed, Musa Umar (also known as “Small”), Mashkur Jamil, Suleiman Sani, and Abubakar Usman.
According to the prosecution, the defendants are facing a nine-count charge bordering on criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, and murder. The court adjourned the matter to February 2026 for further hearing.
Ms. Maduagwu was an Anchor, Reporter, and Producer with ARISE News, whose death sparked widespread public concern and renewed calls for improved security across the Federal Capital Territory.
Meanwhile, the FCT Police Command has urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by promptly reporting suspicious activities. Members of the public were encouraged to use the Command’s emergency lines: 08032003913, 08028940883, or the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) on 08107314192.
The Police assured the public of their commitment to ensuring justice for the victims and strengthening security within the FCT.
