The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, has sentenced Peter Nwachukwu, the husband of late gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu, to death by hanging. Justice Nwosu-Iheme delivered the judgment today after finding him guilty of culpable homicide related to Osinachi’s death on April 8, 2022.
Osinachi Nwachukwu, known for her powerful voice in the gospel hit song Ekwueme, passed away in 2022 under suspicious circumstances. Many fans were heartbroken and demanded justice for her. Investigations later showed that she had faced domestic violence.
Peter Nwachukwu was first brought to court on June 3, 2022, with a 23-count charge. The charges included culpable homicide, spousal battery, cruelty to children, and criminal intimidation.
During the trial, the prosecution presented 17 witnesses, including two of the couple’s children. They also submitted 25 important documents. In defense, Nwachukwu and four other witnesses tried to argue his innocence but could not convince the court.
Even though the defense lawyer, Reginald Nwali, asked the court for mercy, the prosecution insisted that justice must be served. In the end, Justice Nwosu-Iheme sentenced Peter Nwachukwu to death by hanging for Count 1.
Besides the death sentence, he also received:
- Two years’ imprisonment each on Counts 2, 3, 8, 9, 12, 13, and 18
- Six months on Count 10
- Three years on Count 11
- Fines of ₦500,000 and ₦200,000 on Counts 6 and 7
The judgment has been seen as a major step toward fighting domestic violence and protecting the rights of women and children in Nigeria.
Today, many Nigerians are remembering Osinachi Nwachukwu not only for her beautiful songs but also for the call for justice her death inspired.
