Raphael Kanu
A wave of grief swept through the quiet town of Agulu in Anambra State on Saturday as the remains of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, the vibrant Arise Television news anchor fondly known as “Sommie,” were laid to rest amid tears, prayers, and tributes from family, friends, and colleagues.
The 29-year-old journalist, who was killed during an armed robbery attack at her Abuja residence in September 2025, was buried after a funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Agulu, in the Anaocha Local Government Area.
From early morning, the Agulu community was shrouded in solemnity. Colleagues from Arise News, journalists from other media houses, government officials, and local residents gathered in their numbers to pay their last respects to a young woman whose career embodied passion, grace, and professionalism. Maduagwu’s death had sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s media industry, where she was celebrated as one of the emerging faces of fearless, credible journalism. Her colleagues described her as a beacon of hope in a profession increasingly under pressure.
Among the dignitaries in attendance was Mr. Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, who also hails from Agulu. Standing before the grieving crowd, Obi’s voice trembled with emotion as he lamented the country’s deteriorating security situation. “We cannot question God,” he said softly. “When I heard of her death, I didn’t even know she was from Agulu before I tweeted about it. Her death is heartbreaking and a painful reflection of the insecurity that has taken over our nation. Before I left Birmingham yesterday, I told some people I was rushing back home for the burial of one of my daughters. Please continue to pray for her and her family.” Obi’s remarks drew murmurs of agreement from mourners, many of whom echoed concerns about the worsening state of safety across Nigeria.
Delivering the homily during the Mass, Rev. Fr. Peter Ezewuzie, Parish Priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, urged the bereaved family to draw comfort from their faith and the belief that Somtochukwu lived a meaningful and impactful life. “The Lord who created us knows the beginning from the end,” he preached. “Some of you may wonder why such a young life was cut short, but only God knows His plans. The maturity of life is not measured by how long one lives, but by the quality of life lived. Christelle lived well, and she is in a better place.” The priest’s message resonated deeply, with many mourners moved to tears as hymns of consolation filled the church.
Speaking on behalf of the family, the deceased’s uncle, Mr. Obi Maduagwu, expressed gratitude to Arise News Channel for their unwavering support since the tragedy. “We thank the management of Arise News. They have stood by us since the day she passed. Their solidarity has given us strength through this dark moment,” he said. He also extended appreciation to friends, journalists, and public figures who travelled from across Nigeria to honour Somtochukwu’s memory.
Before her untimely death, Maduagwu had established herself as one of the promising new voices in Nigerian broadcast journalism. Known for her eloquence, calm poise, and depth of analysis, she anchored several high-profile interviews and news programmes that earned her admiration from viewers nationwide. Tributes have continued to pour in on social media and from across the media industry. Many described her as intelligent, compassionate, and unafraid to tell the truth. Her colleague at Arise TV, who preferred anonymity, said, “Somto was more than just a presenter. She was a friend, a sister, and a mentor to many of us. Her death reminds us how unsafe our society has become, even for those who just want to do their jobs and return home safely.”
Maduagwu’s tragic death adds to the growing list of young Nigerians whose lives have been cut short by insecurity. Her killing during a late-night home invasion in Abuja has reignited public anger over the persistent failure of the government to protect citizens, even in supposedly secure neighbourhoods. Media advocates and rights groups have since renewed calls for greater protection for journalists, who often face threats both in the line of duty and in their personal lives.
As her casket was lowered into the earth around 1:30 p.m., the air was filled with sobs, hymns, and the scent of incense. Friends and relatives clutched flowers and photographs, whispering their final goodbyes to the young woman who once lit up television screens across the nation. Though her life was brief, Somtochukwu Maduagwu’s story remains a testament to courage, excellence, and the fragility of life in a country still struggling with insecurity. She leaves behind her parents, siblings, colleagues, and countless admirers who will forever remember her for her brilliance, humility, and unwavering commitment to truth.
“The light that burns twice as bright burns half as long,” one mourner said quietly at the graveside. “Somto’s light burned beautifully.”