TEARS AS ARISE TV ANCHOR SOMTO MADUAGWU IS LAID TO REST IN ANAMBRA

It was an emotional farewell in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, on Saturday, October 18, 2025, as relatives, friends, and colleagues gathered to pay their last respects to Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu — the gifted Arise TV anchor whose promising life was abruptly ended in tragedy.

The 29-year-old journalist, fondly called “Sommie,” was buried in her family compound after a solemn funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Agulu.

Her burial drew mourners from across the country, including Labour Party chieftain and former Anambra governor, Peter Obi, as well as representatives of the state government.

Somtochukwu’s death on September 29 shocked the nation and left the media industry in deep mourning. She was murdered during an armed robbery at her home in Katampe, Abuja, in an attack that also claimed the life of her security guard, Barnabas Danlami. The Federal Capital Territory Police Command later announced the arrest of twelve suspects connected to the crime.

In his tribute, Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, described Somtochukwu as “a radiant star dimmed too soon,” expressing heartbreak over the growing insecurity threatening lives across the country.

Before her tragic end, Somtochukwu had carved a niche for herself as one of the brightest young faces in Nigerian broadcast journalism. A trained lawyer turned media professional, she was admired for her eloquence, depth, and graceful screen presence. Her colleagues at Arise News remembered her as a beacon of truth, empathy, and professionalism.

As hymns filled the air and mourners struggled to hold back tears, her burial became more than a goodbye — it was a sobering reminder of how fleeting yet powerful a purposeful life can be.

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