Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), sitting in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, has sentenced Peter Nwachukwu to death by hanging following his conviction for culpable homicide in the death of his wife, renowned gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu.
The judgement, delivered today, comes three years after the singer’s tragic passing on April 8, 2022. The court found Nwachukwu guilty after concluding that the prosecution had presented overwhelming evidence establishing the case beyond a reasonable doubt.
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 total of 23 charges, including culpable homicide punishable by death, criminal intimidation, spousal battery, cruelty to children, and other related offences.
Throughout the trial, the prosecution presented 17 witnesses, including two of the couple’s children, who provided compelling testimonies as key witnesses. In addition, 25 documentary exhibits were tendered to substantiate the charges against Nwachukwu. On his part, the defendant testified in his own defence, called four witnesses, and submitted four exhibits to the court.
Justice Nwosu-Iheme sentenced Nwachukwu to death by hanging on the charge of culpable homicide and imposed additional sentences, including two years’ imprisonment each on counts of criminal intimidation, spousal battery, and other related offences.
Osinachi Nwachukwu, widely celebrated for her gospel hit “Ekwueme,” left an indelible mark on the Nigerian music scene before her untimely death shocked the nation. The court’s ruling marks a significant development in the fight against domestic violence and abuse.
