The wheels of justice turn slowly, but they grind exceeding fine.
Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, has sentenced Peter Nwachukwu, husband of late gospel singer Osinachi, to death by hanging.
The ruling was delivered on Monday after the court found him guilty of culpable homicide in connection with his wife’s death on April 8, 2022.
The prosecution successfully proved its case against Nwachukwu, who was arraigned on June 3, 2022, by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation on behalf of the Federal Government.
He faced a 23-count charge, including culpable homicide punishable by death, criminal intimidation, cruelty to children, and spousal battery.
Trial and Sentencing Details
During the trial, the prosecution presented 17 witnesses, including two of the couple’s children, who testified as the fourth and fifth prosecution witnesses. Additionally, 25 documents were submitted as evidence before the court.
Nwachukwu testified in his defense, calling four additional witnesses and tendering four exhibits. However, the court ruled that the weight of the evidence pointed squarely to his culpability.
Before sentencing, defense counsel Reginald Nwali pleaded for leniency, urging the court to temper justice with mercy. However, prosecuting counsel Mrs. Aderonke Imala insisted that the law should be enforced as stipulated.
Justice Nwosu-Iheme sentenced Nwachukwu to death by hanging on Count 1. Additionally, he received:
- 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 ₦500,000 and ₦200,000 on Counts 6 and 7, respectively.
With a voice that soared like heavenly choirs, Osinachi’s sweet melodies captivated hearts. Her hits, like “Ekwueme,” still echo in minds. In the sacred halls of The Dunamis International Ministry in Abuja, where she worshipped, her spirit-filled voice would often lift congregations to spiritual heights.
She passed away at the age of 42.
Her death triggered widespread outrage, with many Nigerians demanding justice for the singer. There were suggestions she was a victim of domestic violence, who stayed in the hopes of resolving her differences with her husband out of Christian injunction.
The case has since drawn national attention, highlighting concerns about domestic violence and legal accountability.
Yet, only God is the all-knowing true judge. And in Nigeria, the sentencing may be appealed upto the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
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