Tears as Arise TV Anchor Somtochukwu Maduagwu Laid to Rest in Anambra — Peter Obi, Others Attend

Grief enveloped Agulu community in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State on Saturday as family, friends, colleagues, and dignitaries gathered to bid farewell to Arise TV journalist Somtochukwu “Sommie” Maduagwu, who was laid to rest in her hometown.

The late broadcaster, whose life was tragically cut short during an armed robbery attack at her Abuja residence in September 2025, was buried after a funeral Mass held at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Agulu, with interment taking place around 1:30 p.m.

Among those present was former Anambra State governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who joined mourners to pay tribute to the talented news anchor remembered for her professionalism and bright future.

Delivering the homily, Reverend Father Peter Ezewuzie of St. Theresa’s Parish urged the bereaved family to take solace in faith and the meaningful life Sommie lived.
He said, “The Lord who created us knows the beginning from the end. You may be unhappy that a life was cut short, but perhaps that is how God planned it. The maturity of life is not in its length but in its quality. Sommie lived a good life — one worth remembering.”

In his remarks, Peter Obi described Sommie’s death as “heartbreaking” and a reminder of the worsening insecurity in Nigeria.
He said, “We cannot question God. When I heard of her death, I didn’t even know she was from Agulu. This is a painful loss, and our presence here is to console the family. Before leaving Birmingham yesterday, I told those with me that I was rushing back home for the burial of one of my daughters. Please remember her and her family in your prayers.”

Her uncle, Mr. Obi Maduagwu, elder brother to Sommie’s father, expressed gratitude to Arise News for their support since the tragedy.
He said, “We thank the management of Arise News. They have been with us from the very beginning. We are deeply grateful to everyone who came to mourn with us.”

The late Somtochukwu Maduagwu was remembered not only as a rising star in Nigerian journalism but also as a kind and passionate individual whose life, though brief, left a lasting impact on many.

Opinion Nigeria News