Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, has sentenced Peter Nwachukwu, the husband of late gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu, to death by hanging.
The judgment was delivered after the court found Nwachukwu guilty of culpable homicide, leading to the death of his wife, Osinachi, on April 8, 2022.
Court’s Verdict
Justice Nwosu-Iheme ruled that the prosecution successfully proved the burden of proof required by law, establishing beyond reasonable doubt that the defendant was responsible for the singer’s death. The court subsequently sentenced Peter Nwachukwu to death by hanging.
Background of the Case
Peter Nwachukwu was arraigned on June 3, 2022, by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (OAGF) on behalf of the Federal Government. He faced a 23-count charge that included:
- Culpable homicide punishable by death
- Criminal intimidation
- Spousal battery
- Cruelty to children
- Criminal intimidation of minors
During the trial, the prosecution presented 17 witnesses, including two of the late Osinachi’s children, who testified as the fourth (PW4) and fifth (PW5) prosecution witnesses. The prosecution also submitted 25 documents as exhibits to the court.
In defense, Peter Nwachukwu testified on his own behalf and called four additional witnesses, tendering four exhibits in his defense.
Sentencing Details
Before the sentencing, Nwachukwu’s counsel, Reginald Nwali, appealed for leniency, urging the court to temper justice with mercy. However, the prosecuting counsel, Mrs. Aderonke Imala, requested the court to apply the full force of the law.
Following deliberations, Justice Nwosu-Iheme handed down the following sentences:
- Death by hanging on Count 1 (culpable homicide)
- Two years’ imprisonment each on Counts 2, 3, 8, 9, 12, 13, and 18
- Six months’ imprisonment on Count 10
- Three years’ imprisonment on Count 11
- Fines of N500,000 and N200,000 respectively on Counts 6 and 7
About the Late Osinachi
Osinachi Nwachukwu was a prominent Nigerian gospel artist, best known for her hit song “Ekwueme.” She tragically passed away on April 8, 2022, at the age of 42. Her death sparked national outrage, with fans and rights activists demanding justice for her amid widespread allegations of domestic violence.
What you should know
The sentencing of Peter Nwachukwu brings a significant closure to a high-profile case that ignited conversations about domestic violence and the rights of women in Nigeria. Justice Nwosu-Iheme’s judgment is a firm reminder of the law’s role in protecting vulnerable members of society and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.
