The late Arise Television news anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, popularly known as Sommie, was laid to rest on Saturday amid tears and tributes from family, colleagues, and friends at her hometown in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Maduagwu, who was killed during an armed robbery attack at her residence in Abuja in September 2025, was buried at about 1:30 p.m. after a funeral Mass held at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Agulu.
The burial drew a large crowd, including media professionals and dignitaries such as the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Peter Ezewuzie of St. Theresa’s Catholic Church urged the bereaved family to take solace in God, describing the late journalist as someone who lived a life of purpose and impact.
He said, “The Lord who created us knows the beginning from the end. Even though her death is painful, we must understand that God’s plans are beyond our comprehension. The maturity of life is not how long we live, but how well we live. Somtochukwu lived a quality life, and that is what matters.”
Speaking after the service, Peter Obi described Maduagwu’s death as “heartbreaking” and a sad reflection of the country’s security challenges.
“This is a very painful loss. When I heard of her death, I didn’t even know she was from Agulu until later. We cannot question God, but this is another reminder of the insecurity that has taken so many promising lives in our nation,” Obi said.
He added that he returned to Nigeria specifically to attend the burial.
“Before I left Birmingham yesterday, I told those with me that I was hurrying home for the burial of one of my daughters. We must continue to remember her and her family in our prayers,” he said.
Her uncle, Mr. Obi Maduagwu, expressed gratitude to Arise News for their support since the tragedy occurred.
“We deeply appreciate the management and staff of Arise News. They have stood by us from the very beginning. We thank everyone who travelled down to be with us during this painful moment,” he said.
