The remains of Sommie Maduagwu, a beloved former beauty queen and Arise TV news anchor, who tragically lost her life during a robbery attack at her residence in Abuja in late September, have been laid to rest amidst tears and tributes from family, friends, and dignitaries.
The heartbreaking incident, which occurred on the night of September 29, 2025, shocked the Nigerian media landscape, leaving colleagues and viewers mourning the sudden loss of the talented journalist, known for her grace, professionalism, and vibrant personality on screen.
According to reports, Sommie was attacked by armed robbers who invaded her home in Abuja. Despite efforts to save her, she succumbed to injuries sustained during the incident, marking a tragic end to a promising career and a life filled with purpose.
Sommmie Maduagwu Laid to Rest in Her Hometown
Her final journey took place on October 18, as her remains were interred at her family’s ancestral compound in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State. The funeral proceedings began with a solemn Mass held at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Agulu, where hundreds gathered to celebrate her life and bid her farewell.
The ceremony was attended by relatives, friends, colleagues from the media industry, and dignitaries, including political figures such as Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, who was present to pay his respects.
The atmosphere was deeply emotional as mourners wept openly, recounting Sommie’s kindness, humility, and passion for journalism. Many described her as a shining light whose impact transcended the newsroom.
Priest Comforts the Bereaved Family
During his homily, Reverend Father Peter Ezewuzie, the parish priest of St. Theresa Catholic Church, urged the grieving family to find strength and comfort in their faith. He reminded them that Sommie’s life, though short, was filled with purpose and divine impact.
He said:
“The Lord who created us knows the beginning from the end. He is all-knowing, and some of you may be unhappy that a life has been cut short, but you won’t know if that is how God planned it.
“He (God) is an all-knowing father; so, I urge you to grieve less. God, who gave Christelle Somtoo Maduagwu to your family, loves her more than you do. The only thing you owe her is to continue to remember her in your prayers. She is in a better place today and will always remember us, too.
“The maturity of life is the quality of life lived and not how long, and we can be sure that our sister lived a quality life. Let us strive to live our lives well. We are not here by chance; there is someone who brought us here, and he expects that you will live a good life because no one knows when it will be their time.”
His message brought comfort to many mourners, who reflected on Sommie’s dedication to her profession and the positive influence she left behind in her short but remarkable life.
Peter Obi Addresses Mourners
Following the funeral mass, Peter Obi, who hails from the same town as Sommie, addressed the gathering. The former governor of Anambra State expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended his condolences to the Maduagwu family.
He said:
“We cannot question God. When I heard of her death, I didn’t know that she was Agulu even before I tweeted about it.
“Before I left Birmingham yesterday, I told some people who were with me that I was rushing back to Nigeria for the burial of one of my daughters. I told them to remember to pray for her all the time as she will be buried today.”
His touching tribute resonated deeply with mourners, many of whom wept as he spoke. Obi praised Sommie’s life as an example of youthful brilliance and service, urging Nigerians to cherish every moment and contribute positively to society.
As the ceremony drew to a close, her casket was lowered into the ground amidst chants, tears, and prayers. The sound of weeping filled the air as friends and family bid their final farewell to a young woman whose light was extinguished far too soon.
May her soul rest in perfect peace.