The air in Agulu, Anambra State, was heavy with grief on Saturday, 18 October 2025, as family, friends, colleagues and admirers gathered to bid farewell to Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, fondly called Sommie.
A beloved news anchor with ARISE News whose tragic passing shook Nigeria’s media community.
Sommie, aged 29, died on 29 September 2025 after reportedly falling from the third floor of her Abuja residence while attempting to escape a violent armed robbery attack.
The horrifying incident also claimed the life of a security guard, Barnabas Danlami, sparking nationwide outrage and renewed calls for stronger security in the capital.
Authorities later confirmed that at least 12 suspects had been arrested in connection with the crime.
Her funeral journey began with an emotional Night of Tributes at the THISDAY Dome, Abuja, on 12 October, where colleagues and public figures recounted her kindness, wit, and professionalism.
A Service of Songs followed on 15 October at Corpus Christi Cathedral, Port Harcourt, filled with prayers, hymns, and testimonies from fellow journalists who described her as “a radiant soul whose smile made the newsroom brighter.”
The final rites reached their culmination at St. Theresa Catholic Church, Agulu, where mourners gathered for a solemn requiem mass.
Her white casket, surrounded by flowers and her portraits, was carried to her family compound for internment at about 1:30 p.m.
Heavy tears flowed as her parents, siblings, and colleagues watched her being laid to rest in the land of her birth.
During the homily, the officiating priest offered a message of comfort:
“The maturity of life is not measured by how long we live, but by the quality of our days. Somtochukwu lived a quality life — one that touched many.”
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi, who attended the burial, also expressed deep sorrow, saying:
“We cannot question God. Please remember her family in your prayers.”
ARISE News released a heartfelt statement celebrating her as “a talented and dedicated journalist who embodied excellence and integrity.”
On social media, tributes poured in from across Nigeria and beyond — journalists, politicians, and ordinary citizens all mourning a young woman whose career had only just begun to blossom.
Somtochukwu Maduagwu’s death leaves behind a void that words can barely fill.
Yet her legacy — of brilliance, warmth, and courage — will continue to inspire a generation of young Nigerian broadcasters.
May her beautiful soul rest in peace. ️