Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, yesterday joined family members, media colleagues and prominent Nigerians in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, to pay their last respects to the late ARISE News anchor, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu.

The 29-year-old broadcaster, popularly known as Sommie, was laid to rest in her father’s compound after a funeral Mass held at St Theresa Catholic Church, Agulu.

The burial drew mourners from within and outside the state as tributes poured in for the young journalist whose life was tragically cut short on September 29 after an armed robbery attack in her Katampe residence in Abuja.

According to reports, about 15 armed robbers invaded the three-storey building at about 2:30 a.m., shot one of the security guards and tied up others. In a desperate attempt to escape, Sommie, who lived on the top floor, jumped from the third storey and sustained fatal head injuries. She later died in hospital.

Police authorities have since arrested 12 suspects linked to the incident and recovered weapons and stolen items.

Preaching at the Mass, Rev. Fr. Peter Ezewuzie urged the family to take solace in their faith, stressing that “the maturity of life is not in its duration but in its quality.” He said God’s purpose remains perfect even when events appear painful.

In his remarks, Obi described the loss as painful but one that must be accepted as the will of God. He disclosed that he cut short his trip abroad to attend the burial.

“Before I left Birmingham yesterday, I told those with me that I was rushing back to Nigeria for the burial of one of my daughters. We cannot question God. Our presence here is to console the family,” Obi said.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Sommie’s uncle, Mr Obi Maduagwu, expressed gratitude to ARISE News management for their support since the tragedy and thanked all who travelled to honour the deceased.

The ceremony ended in tears and quiet reflection as colleagues, parishioners and friends described the journalist as brilliant, warm and passionate about her profession.