ABUJA, Nigeria — Police in the Federal Capital Territory said Friday that Arise Television anchor Somtochukwu Ibeneme died after jumping from the third floor of a building in Abuja.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The announcement by FCT Commissioner of Police Benneth Igweh came amid public concern and speculation over the journalist’s sudden death. The police chief said evidence gathered so far shows Ibeneme jumped from the third floor of an apartment in Garki, a central district of Abuja, late Wednesday night.

Police said officers responded quickly after receiving a distress call but found Ibeneme unconscious when they arrived. He was taken to a nearby hospital where doctors later confirmed his death.

“The investigation revealed that the deceased jumped from the third floor of the building. Our findings at this point do not show foul play,” Igweh said. He added that detectives are continuing their inquiry and will release more details as they become available.

The news of Ibeneme’s death has shocked colleagues in the media industry. Arise TV described him as a hardworking and dedicated journalist who was passionate about telling stories with balance and accuracy. The network said it is cooperating with police and waiting for the outcome of the investigation.

Somtochukwu, widely known by friends and colleagues as “Somto,” was one of the promising young anchors at Arise TV, a network that has built a reputation for covering politics, business and social issues across Nigeria and Africa. He was often praised for his clear presentation and calm style during live broadcasts.

Tributes poured in from fellow journalists, civil society leaders and viewers after news of his passing spread on social media. Many described him as a professional who inspired young reporters with his commitment and energy.

While police have said no crime is suspected at this stage, the case has raised questions about mental health pressures facing journalists in Nigeria. Advocacy groups say reporters often face long hours, high stress and little institutional support as they cover sensitive national issues.

“This is a tragic loss not just for the media but for Nigeria,” said Dapo Olorunyomi, publisher of the Premium Times newspaper. “Journalists work under very difficult conditions. We need to start paying attention to the mental and physical wellbeing of those who bring us the news.”

Colleagues said Ibeneme had recently worked long shifts covering political developments in the country. Some close friends, speaking anonymously, said he had appeared tired and withdrawn in recent weeks, though they were shocked by the news of his death.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for a full investigation and urged news organizations to provide better support systems for their staff. “Every life matters, and we must learn lessons from this painful incident,” NUJ President Chris Isiguzo said in a statement.

For now, police say they are awaiting the results of a medical examination that could provide more clarity on the cause and circumstances of Ibeneme’s death. Authorities also said they have spoken to residents in the building where the fall occurred and are reviewing any available security camera footage.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced by his family. Arise TV said it will hold a memorial program to honor his contributions to journalism.

The death of Somtochukwu Ibeneme leaves behind a grieving family, colleagues, and an audience who followed his work on national television. It also highlights once more the risks and pressures faced by journalists in Nigeria.

Police said updates will be shared as investigations continue. For now, many Nigerians are mourning the loss of a young journalist whose voice had become familiar in living rooms across the country.