The quiet town of Agulu in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State stood still on Saturday October 18, as the remains of late ARISE News anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu — fondly known as Sommie — were laid to rest.
Her death in September during an armed robbery attack at her Abuja home left many Nigerians in shock. The young broadcaster, celebrated for her poise and professionalism on screen, was buried after a funeral Mass at St Theresa’s Catholic Church, Agulu.
The service drew family members, friends, colleagues, and dignitaries, including former Anambra governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
During the solemn Mass, Reverend Father Peter Ezewuzie urged mourners to find peace in faith, reminding them that life’s value is not in its length but in its depth.
“The Lord who created us knows the beginning from the end,” he said softly. “The maturity of life is the quality of life lived, and we can be sure that our sister lived a quality life.”
The priest called on the congregation to remember Sommie in their prayers, describing her as a light that shone briefly but brightly.
Speaking after the service, Peter Obi — himself a native of Agulu — described her passing as “a heartbreaking reminder of the insecurity plaguing our nation.” He shared how he had cut short his stay in Birmingham to attend the funeral.
“Before I left Birmingham yesterday, I told some people I was rushing back for the burial of one of my daughters,” Obi said. “Please continue to pray for her and her family.”
As the casket was lowered into the red soil of her hometown, tears flowed freely. Colleagues from ARISE News spoke in hushed voices about her kindness and the bright career that was abruptly ended.
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