Tears flowed freely on Saturday as family members, colleagues, and prominent Nigerians gathered in Agulu, Anambra State, for the burial of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, popularly known as Sommie, a beloved Arise News anchor whose sudden passing shocked the nation.
The 28-year-old journalist was interred around 1:30 p.m. in her father’s compound in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area — the hometown of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, who was among those present to pay their last respects.
Delivering a heartfelt homily at St Theresa Catholic Church, Agulu, Reverend Father Peter Ezewuzie urged the grieving family to find solace in faith, describing Sommie’s short but impactful life as a “testimony of grace and purpose.”
“The Lord who created us knows the beginning from the end. We may not understand why a life was cut short, but we must trust in His wisdom,” the priest said.
“The maturity of life is not in its length, but in its quality — and Sommie lived a quality life that touched many.”
Peter Obi: “We Cannot Question God”
Addressing mourners after the mass, Mr Peter Obi described Maduagwu’s death as “a painful loss,” noting that he only discovered she hailed from his hometown after publicly expressing his condolences.
“We cannot question God,” Obi said. “Before I left Birmingham yesterday, I told people I was rushing home for the burial of one of my daughters. Her passing is a huge loss, but we take comfort in the will of God. Please, continue to remember her and her family in your prayers.”
Family Appreciates Arise News, Well-Wishers
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr Obi Maduagwu, the late journalist’s uncle, expressed gratitude to Arise News for standing by them since the tragedy occurred.
“We thank the management of Arise News. They have been with us right from the beginning,” he said. “We also thank all who journeyed long distances to be here with us.”
Maduagwu’s death has continued to stir grief across Nigeria’s media and social landscape, with colleagues and fans remembering her as “bright, fearless, and full of promise.” Her professionalism and charm on screen had made her one of the rising stars of Nigerian broadcast journalism.
As the final prayers were said, mourners described her passing as a painful reminder of life’s fragility — and a call to live with purpose and compassion, just as she did.
