The remains of the late ARISE News anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, fondly called Sommie, have been laid to rest in her hometown, Agulu, in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State.
According to reports, Sommie, who tragically lost her life in September 2025 during an armed robbery attack at her Abuja residence, was buried on Saturday after a solemn Funeral Mass at St Theresa’s Catholic Church, Agulu.
The funeral attracted family members, colleagues, dignitaries, and public figures, including the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who hails from the same community.
During his sermon, Reverend Father Peter Ezewuzie of St Theresa’s Catholic Church urged mourners to take solace in the quality of life Sommie lived, reminding them that God alone understands the mysteries of life and death.
He said, “Some of you may be unhappy that her life was cut short, but you won’t know if that’s how God planned it. The maturity of life is the quality of life lived, not how long it was. We are certain that our sister lived a quality life.”
In his tribute, Peter Obi described Sommie’s death as “heartbreaking” and a sad reflection of the country’s growing insecurity.
He said, “We cannot question God. This loss is huge, but we take solace in knowing she lived well. Before I left Birmingham, I told some people I was rushing home for the burial of one of my daughters. Please remember her and her family in your prayers.”
