Peter Obi present at burial mass, interment of killed Arise News journalist, Somtochukwu Maduagwu (See pictures)

Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, was among those who attended the burial Mass at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Agulu, Anambra State, and interment of Arise News journalist, Miss Somtochukwu Maduagwu on Saturday, October 18, 2025.

In an X (former Twitter) post, Mr. Obi, a former Governor of Anambra, said he returned the day before from the United Kingdom (UK) where he had several engagements, including a meeting with Ghana-born Commonwealth Secretary-General, Shirley Botchwey, before heading to Agulu for the interment of the journalist who was killed in her home in Abuja after an encounter with alleged armed robbers.

“It was a deeply painful experience to witness such a promising future abruptly ended,” Obi said, noting that “Somtochukwu was a shining example of youthful resourcefulness and dedication. Her passion for truth and commitment to her work reflected the immense possibilities that abound when our young people are given the right environment to thrive. Losing such a bright talent to insecurity is not only a personal tragedy but also a national loss,” Obi said.

Lamenting her demise further, Obi also said that Somtochukwu’s “warmth, kindness, and gentle spirit touched everyone who knew her. My thoughts and prayers are with her parents, her siblings, and all who mourn this irreparable loss. May God, in His infinite mercy, console her family, strengthen their hearts, and grant them the grace to bear this pain.

“May the gentle soul of Somtochukwu Maduagwu rest peacefully in the bosom of the Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon her. Amen,” he concluded.