Trial of Arise News Anchor Murder Suspects Resumes

The trial for the murder of Arise News anchor Somtochukwu Sommi Maduagwu resumed on Tuesday at the High Court in the Federal Capital Territory, Jabi. The prosecution, led by Maxwell Ej, an Assistant Superintendent of Police attached to the Scorpion Squad of the CID FCT Command, detailed the investigation that led to the arrest of the first defendant, Shamsu Hassan.

Hassan allegedly fled to Zaria on September 29, 2025, after a robbery at Unique Apartments in Katampe, Abuja. He was apprehended on September 30 and subsequently confessed to his involvement in the crime, providing information that led to the arrest of Sani Surajo, an accomplice who was receiving medical treatment in Gosa along Airport Road, Abuja.

The court proceedings faced delays due to the defense counsel's request for a medical appointment. The matter has been adjourned until April 23, 2026, with the prosecution indicating readiness to call two witnesses to testify against the defendants, who face charges of conspiracy, armed robbery, and murder related to the incident that resulted in the death of security guard Barnaba Danlami.