Interview page Editor
Ifechukwu Ude
Engineer Ifeanyi Maduagwu, father of late Arise TV presenter Somtochukwu Christella Maduagwu, speaks about his daughter’s life, dreams, and the painful loss of his “handbag” — a daughter who wanted to change Nigeria.
Could you introduce yourself to our readers?
I’m Engineer Ifeanyi Maduagwu, from Agulu in Anambra State.
How did you first hear about Somtochukwu’s death?
It was a tragic shock. I was at work when my elder brother called, asking me to come urgently to Port Harcourt. Barely fifteen minutes earlier, I had spoken to my wife. After that call from my brother, I rang my wife again — just to hear her voice — but unknowingly, she had already been trying to reach Sommie through others and was worried.
Before I could make sense of it all, my company arranged for a chopper to get me out quickly. Sadly, by the time everything became clear, my daughter was gone. After all her sacrifices and passion, her life was cut short.
Tell us about her educational background.
Somtochukwu studied in the UK and later returned for Law School in Nigeria. She completed her youth service and got her NYSC certificate. I had already bought her ticket to return abroad for a master’s degree, but she insisted on working in Nigeria for two years to gain experience before going back.
She loved this country so much that she even came back when I didn’t know she was planning to. It was between her and her mother. That was her destiny.
Why was she so determined to work in Nigeria?
She wanted to make a difference. She believed Nigeria was heading in the wrong direction and that her voice needed to be heard at home. Her dream was to be part of the solution and to push for changes the country desperately needs.
What are some of your fondest memories of her?
Our most recent was a trip to Tangier, Morocco, from September 4 to 9, 2025. We went to the beach, took a city tour on one of those double-decker buses — just father and daughter, enjoying ourselves and creating memories.
Did she ever share her dreams and aspirations with you?
Yes. She wanted to help the needy and empower women politically. Her greatest dream was to one day become a senator in Nigeria.
How does it feel knowing that her dreams were cut short?
My brother, it is heartbreaking. She had so much passion and a burning desire to contribute to this nation, but that was taken away from her.
Was she planning anything for her next birthday?
Her birthday is December 26. She had already planned to go to the village and cook for the kindred, especially the children. She did something similar four years ago. She loved giving back.
Did she talk about marriage?
Such matters were usually discussed more with her mother. During our family trips to London and Morocco, my wife told me she had many suitors, but Somto always said she wanted to establish herself before marriage. Eventually, she did get engaged.
What does Somtochukwu’s death mean to you personally?
I had Sommie on December 26, 1995. For over five years after her birth, we didn’t have another child. She became my handbag. Everywhere we went, it was “Sommie, Sommie.”
She was full of life — dancing, laughing, lighting up any room she entered. Her death pierced my heart like an arrow.
What will you miss the most about her?
Everything — her care, her constant calls: “Dad, have you eaten? Are you taking your medications? Are you okay?” It’s not easy, my brother. (Pauses, fighting back tears.) I don’t want to cry anymore; the tears I’ve shed are enough.
