Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, has sentenced Peter Nwachukwu, husband of the late gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu, to death by hanging.
In her ruling, Justice Nwosu-Iheme found Nwachukwu guilty of culpable homicide, stating that the prosecution had successfully met the burden of proof required by law. The court concluded that Nwachukwu’s actions directly caused Osinachi’s death on April 8, 2022.
Nwachukwu was first arraigned on June 3, 2022, on a 23-count charge, which included culpable homicide, criminal intimidation, cruelty to children, and spousal battery.
During the trial, the prosecution team, led by Mrs. Aderonke Imala from the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, presented 17 witnesses—including two of the couple’s children—and tendered 25 exhibits. In his defence, Nwachukwu testified on his own behalf, called four witnesses, and submitted four exhibits. His lawyer, Reginald Nwali, pleaded for leniency, urging the court to temper justice with mercy. However, Mrs. Imala insisted the law should be upheld in full, which the court ultimately agreed with.
Beyond the death sentence on Count 1, Justice Nwosu-Iheme imposed additional penalties:
Two years’ imprisonment each on Counts 2, 3, 8, 9, 12, 13, and 18.
Six months’ imprisonment for Count 10.
Three years’ imprisonment for Count 11.
Fines of ₦500,000 and ₦200,000 on Counts 6 and 7, respectively.
The tragic case drew national outrage and renewed discussions across Nigeria on domestic violence and the urgent need to protect vulnerable family members.
Story by Obaapa Janee / ahotoronline.com
Source: Pulse.ng
