By Zara Maisango
In a landmark judgment that has drawn nationwide attention, the Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Abuja has sentenced Peter Nwachukwu, husband of the late gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu, to death by hanging for culpable homicide.
Delivering the verdict on Monday, Justice Njideka K. Nwosu-Iheme found Nwachukwu guilty, stating that the prosecution successfully proved beyond reasonable doubt that his actions directly led to his wife’s tragic death on April 8, 2022. The celebrated gospel singer, known for her powerful voice in the hit song "Ekwueme," had reportedly endured years of domestic abuse before her untimely demise.
Nwachukwu was arraigned on a 23-count charge, which included culpable homicide under Section 221 of the Penal Code, as well as charges of spousal battery and child cruelty. Evidence presented during the trial revealed a harrowing pattern of physical, emotional, and psychological abuse, with multiple witnesses — including Osinachi’s family members, friends, and children — providing chilling testimonies about the years of suffering she endured.
The defense team's plea for leniency was swiftly rejected by Justice Nwosu-Iheme, who emphasized the gravity of Nwachukwu’s offenses. In addition to the death sentence for homicide, the court handed down multiple prison terms for other charges and imposed heavy fines.
Reacting to the judgment, human rights activists and the general public have hailed the decision as a bold statement against domestic violence and a significant step towards justice for victims of abuse.
The ruling serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and reinforces the legal system’s commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals from such heinous crimes.
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