As Nigerians continue to mourn the demise of ARISE News anchor Somtochukwu ‘Sommie’ Maduagwu, a clergy and Administrator of Corpus Christi Cathedral, Port Harcourt, Rev Fr. Martins Amadi has urged the President Bola Tinubu-led federal government to tackle the unresting issues in the country for peace and development.
Somtochukwu lost her life during a robbery incident at her residence in Abuja, in September.
Fr Amadi made the call Wednesday evening, during a service of songs in honour of Somtochukwu, at the Corpus Christi Cathedral, Kaduna Street, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
In his remarks at the end of the Mass, the Administrator of the cathedral, noted that the death of Sommie will not end the cry of many Nigerians seeking a better nation.
He said “Her death will not be an end to millions of Nigerians crying for a better country. A star has fallen down, but stars will rise again”.
Noting the vacuum the death of Sommie created in his family and ARISE News, Fr Amadi said “It us indeed a difficult one for all of us, particularly the family of Maduagwu.”
He described Sommie as an inspirational person, saying “She is not present here, but she has fulfilled the purpose for this thanksgiving to God. She has touched so many souls, she is such an inspiring human being.”
To Maduagwu’s family the clergy urged them not to grieve anymore, stressing that her short life on earth was meaningful, adding that she lived a life that inspired a lot of people.
Also noting the remarks that has been coming up since the demise of the ARISE News correspondent, the clergy said “The government should do better to change the course of this nation so everybody will live comfortable and peaceful in the country.”
In his homily, Fr Charles Tochukwu said nobody saw the incident coming, saying that Nigeria is bleeding over the gruesome death of Sommie.
Fr Tochukwu who reminded the congregation on the need to be prepared at all time said Sommie served while alive in various capacity, adding that she was a good woman.
Urging the bereaved to take solace in the Lord at the moment, the priest described the deceased as “A virtuous woman, though she is dead before her time, she will fine rest with the Lord”.
Referencing the Gospel reading for the Mass which was from John 11: 17- 25, Fr Tochukwu said “The gospel reading is a consolation. God will deliver us, Nigeria will be better”. He urged everyone to change their wats and embrace the way of the Lord, noting that “death is real”.
Meanwhile, ARISE News reporter in Port Harcourt, Andy Omano, who spoke on behalf of the media organisation at the programme, described Sommie as a great asset to the news channel.
Stressing how painful it is to lose her to death at a young age, Omano said “It is very painful that she is not going to be with us on earth, but the short time she lived, she was fulfilled.”
He however, consoled the family on behalf of ARISE News on the death of Sommie.
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