Heartbreak in Agulu: Tears Flow as Slain Arise TV Journalist Somto Maduagwu Is Laid to Rest — Peter Obi, Colleagues, Dignitaries Pay Emotional Tribute

Tears, grief, and disbelief filled the air on Saturday as the remains of Somtochukwu Maduagwu, the late Arise Television news anchor affectionately known as “Sommie”, were laid to rest in her hometown, Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The young journalist, whose promising career was cut short in a tragic armed robbery attack in Abuja last month, was buried amid torrents of emotion, with family members, friends, and colleagues struggling to come to terms with her untimely death.

Among the mourners was Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who hails from the same town. Visibly shaken, Obi described Maduagwu’s death as “heartbreaking and a painful reminder of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis.”

> “Somto was not just a journalist; she was a voice of truth, professionalism, and hope,” Obi said. “Her death is another tragic symbol of the insecurity plaguing our nation — a young life, full of promise, wasted senselessly.”

The funeral Mass, held at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Agulu, drew a large crowd of mourners from across the country. Inside the church, the atmosphere was thick with emotion as hymns of farewell echoed through the walls.

Delivering a moving homily, Rev. Fr. Peter Ezewuzie, the parish priest of St. Theresa’s, urged the family to find solace in the knowledge that Somto lived a meaningful life, however short.

> “The maturity of life is not measured by years but by impact,” he said. “Somtochukwu lived a life of purpose. Though her candle burned briefly, it shone brightly. We must all live in readiness, for no one knows when their time will come.”

As the coffin was lowered into the ground at exactly 1:30 p.m., tears flowed freely. Friends held each other for support; colleagues from Arise News sobbed quietly, and the sound of sorrowful hymns filled the air.

The deceased’s uncle, Obi Maduagwu, who spoke on behalf of the family, expressed gratitude to Arise News Channel for their unwavering support since Somto’s passing.

> “Arise News has stood by us from the very beginning. Their solidarity and compassion have been a great comfort to our family,” he said. “We are also grateful to everyone who came from far and near to honour our daughter.”

Tributes have continued to pour in from across Nigeria and beyond. Many described Somto as “brilliant, courageous, and passionate about journalism,” a rising star who brought warmth and integrity to her work.

Colleagues at Arise TV recalled her infectious smile and relentless drive for excellence. One of her producers described her as “a shining light in the newsroom, always eager to tell stories that mattered.”

Saturday’s burial was attended by journalists, government officials, traditional leaders, and members of the Agulu community — all united in grief over the loss of a rare gem.

As the sun set over Agulu, one message lingered in every heart — Somto Maduagwu may be gone, but her voice for truth and justice will never be forgotten.