Tears as Arise TV Anchor Somtochukwu Maduagwu Laid to Rest in Anambra; Peter Obi, Journalists Pay Tribute
Tears and emotions filled the air on Saturday as Somtochukwu Maduagwu, the late Arise Television news anchor fondly known as “Sommie,” was finally laid to rest in her hometown, Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The burial, which drew a large crowd of journalists, dignitaries, and community members, marked a painful farewell to the young journalist whose life was cut short in a violent tragedy that shocked the nation.
Among those in attendance was Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate and former governor of Anambra State, who joined family members, friends, and colleagues to mourn the deceased.
Obi, who also hails from Agulu, described Sommie’s death as “a deeply heartbreaking tragedy and a reflection of Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation.” He urged authorities to prioritize the safety of citizens, especially young professionals whose lives and dreams continue to be cut short by crime and insecurity.
PulseNets learnt that Maduagwu was brutally killed in September during an armed robbery attack at her residence in Abuja. Her remains were interred at about 1:30 p.m. after a solemn funeral Mass held at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Agulu.
Delivering the homily, Rev. Fr. Peter Ezewuzie of St. Theresa’s Parish comforted the grieving family, urging them to take solace in faith and the legacy their daughter left behind.
“The Lord who created us knows the beginning and the end,” the cleric said.
“He is an all-knowing Father, and I urge you to find peace in knowing that Christelle Somtoo lived a purposeful and impactful life. God loves her more than we do, and though her time was short, it was filled with meaning.”
The priest went on to remind the congregation that “the measure of life is not how long it lasts, but the quality of the life lived.” He encouraged mourners to reflect on their own lives and live purposefully, as “no one knows when it will be their time.”
PulseNets obtained by close family members that Arise News Channel had provided unwavering support since the tragic incident. Her uncle, Obi Maduagwu, expressed gratitude to the station and sympathizers who stood by them throughout the difficult period.
“We thank the management of Arise News,” he told PulseNets.
“They have been with us since the very beginning. We also appreciate everyone who came from far and near to console us and honour Sommie’s memory.”
Tributes have continued to pour in across social media and professional circles. Colleagues described Maduagwu as “a brilliant and hardworking journalist whose passion for truth and storytelling inspired many.”
Also Read: Somtochukwu Maduagwu: Police Arrest Suspects in Robbery That Claimed Life of Arise TV Reporter | CCTV Released
Saturday’s funeral brought together journalists, government officials, and members of the Agulu community, all united in grief and admiration for a woman whose voice once brightened Nigerian television screens but was silenced too soon.
