AGULU, Anambra — Emotions were intense Saturday as friends, family, colleagues, and influential figures gathered in Anambra State to bid farewell to Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a rising news anchor with Arise News, whose life was tragically cut short during an armed robbery at her home in Abuja last month. Maduagwu, affectionately known as “Sommie,” was laid to rest following a Mass at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Agulu before burial in her father’s compound. The funeral brought together journalists, politicians, dignitaries, and citizens, highlighting the profound impact of her loss and the urgent need to address Nigeria’s worsening security situation.
The service, held around 1:30 p.m., was attended by mourners from across the country, reflecting the wide-reaching influence of Maduagwu’s journalism career at just 29. She had joined Arise News after previously winning the Miss Tourism Nigeria title and representing the country at Miss Tourism World in China. The tragedy at her residence in September sent shockwaves through the media community, where she was known for her intelligence, energy, and dedication to storytelling.
Delivering the homily, Father Peter Ezewuzie urged mourners to focus on celebrating the quality of Maduagwu’s life rather than its brevity. “The Lord knows the beginning and the end,” he said, urging the family and guests to find solace in her legacy and the impact she made despite her short life. “We may feel her time was cut short, but we cannot understand the plan of God. Sommie lived a quality life, and we are called to do no less.”
In remarks after the Mass, Obi — who hails from the same Agulu community — spoke emotionally about the tragedy. He said he learned of Maduagwu’s death while abroad and had rushed back from Birmingham, U.K., to attend her funeral. Obi described her passing as a painful reminder of the persistent insecurity plaguing the nation, calling it a “heart-breaking loss” that underscores the urgent need for meaningful security reforms.
“The loss of Sommie is deeply painful,” Obi said. “We cannot question God, but we must remember her and her family in our prayers. Her passing is not just a personal tragedy; it should spur us to do more to protect our citizens — especially young people who are contributing positively to society.”
On behalf of the Maduagwu family, Obi Maduagwu thanked Arise News for its support since the attack. The family recounted how the assailants invaded Sommie’s home in September, leading to her untimely death despite attempts to treat her in a hospital. Her death has since fueled public debates about Nigeria’s security architecture, hospital care standards, and the broader responsibilities of government in ensuring citizen safety.
The funeral service drew wide public attention, with many journalists, celebrities, and civil society figures paying tribute to Maduagwu’s talent and potential. Colleagues described her as a fearless journalist whose passion for reporting inspired many, while friends remembered her as warm, ambitious, and uncompromising in her pursuit of truth.
As the casket was lowered into the earth, tears flowed openly, and prayers were offered amid solemn hymns and impassioned speeches. Many attendees held placards reading “Justice for Sommie” and “Safe Streets for All,” echoing the sentiment that her death, while deeply personal, must also serve as a wake-up call to the government.
In the wake of this tragedy, calls have intensified for stronger law enforcement, journalistic protections, and systemic reforms to prevent similar losses. Maduagwu’s story is now etched into the national conversation, her memory serving as both a cautionary tale and a rallying cry for change.
