By Sunny A. David, Awka
Tears and tributes filled the air on Saturday in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, as family, friends, colleagues, and dignitaries gathered to bid farewell to the late Arise News anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, fondly known as Sommie.
Among the mourners was former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party’s 2023 Presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, who hails from the same Agulu community as the deceased. Obi flew in from Birmingham, United Kingdom, to attend the solemn ceremony.
Speaking after the funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Agulu, Obi described Sommie’s death as a heartbreaking loss and a painful reminder of the insecurity affecting the nation.
“We cannot question God,” Obi said. “When I heard about her death, I didn’t even know she was from Agulu. Before leaving Birmingham, I told those with me I was rushing home to bury one of my daughters. Her death is painful, but we must accept God’s will and continue to keep her and her family in our prayers.”
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Peter Ezewuzie, the Parish Priest of St. Theresa’s, encouraged the grieving family to take solace in the quality of life Sommie lived, despite its brevity.
“God, who created us, knows the beginning and the end,” he said. “While we may feel her life was cut short, God sees more than we can. Maturity in life is not measured by its length but by its depth and Sommie lived a meaningful, impactful life.”
Following the service, Sommie was laid to rest at her father’s compound around 1:30 p.m., surrounded by loved ones, media colleagues, and community members. Many wept openly as her casket was lowered into the grave.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr. Obi Maduagwu, elder brother to the deceased’s father, expressed gratitude to Arise News for their continued support.
“We deeply appreciate the management of Arise News. They have stood by us from the beginning. We also thank all who came from far and near to console us.”
Somtochukwu Maduagwu tragically lost her life in September during a robbery attack at her Abuja residence. According to reports, armed assailants stormed her home at night. She was rushed to a nearby hospital but sadly did not survive.
Her untimely death sent shockwaves across the Nigerian media landscape. Sommie had been widely admired as a rising star in broadcast journalism, known for her intelligence, professionalism, and warmth.
Tributes have poured in from across the country, with colleagues, friends, and public figures remembering her as hardworking, passionate, and full of promise.
Her funeral drew a large crowd of journalists, public officials, and residents, all united in grief as they honoured a life that, though short, left an enduring impact.
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