Tears and tributes filled the air on Saturday as the remains of late Arise TV journalist, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, popularly known as Sommie, were laid to rest in her hometown, Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The promising broadcaster, whose life was tragically cut short during an armed robbery attack at her Abuja residence in September 2025, was buried after a solemn funeral Mass held at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Agulu, around 1:30 p.m.
Friends, family members, and colleagues from across Nigeria gathered to pay their final respects. Among the dignitaries present was former Anambra State governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who described Sommie’s death as deeply painful and symbolic of the country’s growing insecurity.
In his remarks, Obi said, “We cannot question God. When I first heard of her death, I didn’t even know she was from Agulu. Our presence here today is to console the family, but this loss is indeed a heavy one. Please continue to keep her and her loved ones in your prayers.”
He added that before leaving Birmingham for Nigeria, he told friends he was returning home for “the burial of one of my daughters,” asking them to remember Sommie in their prayers.
During the homily, Reverend Father Peter Ezewuzie of St. Theresa’s Parish urged mourners to find solace in Sommie’s impactful yet short life.
“The Lord who created us knows the beginning and the end. Though it may seem her life was cut short, God knows best,” he said. “The quality of life matters more than its length, and Sommie lived a meaningful one. Let us honor her memory by living our lives with purpose.”
Family members, including her uncle Mr. Obi Maduagwu, expressed gratitude to Arise News for standing by them throughout the difficult period.
“We appreciate the Arise News team. They have been with us from the very beginning. We also thank everyone who traveled from far and near to support our family,” he said.
The burial of the beloved journalist has reignited conversations about the rising cases of insecurity across Nigeria and the dangers faced by media professionals.
Somtochukwu Maduagwu is remembered by many as a passionate storyteller, a dedicated broadcaster, and a bright star whose light went out too soon.
