A High Court sitting in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, has sentenced Peter Nwachukwu, husband of late gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu, to death by hanging after finding him guilty of culpable homicide in connection with her death on April 8, 2022.
Justice Nwosu-Iheme delivered the judgment on Monday, ruling that the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt.
The court found that Nwachukwu’s violent actions directly led to his wife’s tragic death.
Osinachi, known for her powerful gospel voice, passed away amid allegations of prolonged domestic abuse. Though early reports suggested she died of cancer, testimonies from family members, church associates, and neighbors revealed that she suffered years of physical and emotional violence at the hands of her husband.
Key witnesses claimed that Nwachukwu kicked her in the chest, leading to complications that ultimately caused her death.
Following his arrest, the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (OAGF) arraigned Nwachukwu on June 3, 2022, on a 23-count charge, including culpable homicide, spousal battery, cruelty to children, and criminal intimidation.
During the trial, 17 witnesses, including two of the couple’s children, testified against Nwachukwu, and 25 documents were tendered as evidence.
In his defense, Nwachukwu called four witnesses and submitted four exhibits.
While defense counsel Reginald Nwali pleaded for leniency, lead prosecutor Mrs. Aderonke Imala urged the court to uphold the law and ensure justice for the deceased.
Justice Nwosu-Iheme sentenced Nwachukwu to death by hanging on Count 1. He also received additional prison terms ranging from six months to two years, along with fines of N200,000 and N500,000 for other offences.
The ruling has been hailed by many as a landmark moment in the fight against domestic violence in Nigeria.
