The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, has delivered a significant verdict in the widely followed case of late gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu. On Monday, Justice Nwosu-Iheme sentenced Peter Nwachukwu, Osinachi's husband, to death by hanging after finding him guilty of culpable homicide in connection with her tragic death on April 8, 2022. This ruling marks a pivotal moment in a case that brought the issue of domestic violence in Nigeria to the forefront.
Osinachi Nwachukwu, a celebrated and influential figure in Nigerian gospel music, renowned for her powerful vocals in hit songs like "Ekwueme," passed away in April 2022. Initially, reports suggested her demise was due to illness. However, the narrative soon shifted as harrowing testimonies emerged from family members, church associates, and neighbors, revealing a disturbing history of alleged domestic abuse at the hands of her husband, Peter Nwachukwu.
Witness accounts presented during the trial painted a grim picture of sustained maltreatment. One particularly disturbing testimony alleged that Peter Nwachukwu had physically assaulted Osinachi, including a brutal kick to the chest prior to her death – an injury the prosecution argued significantly contributed to her passing.
The public outcry and the gravity of the allegations led to Peter Nwachukwu's swift arrest. On June 3, 2022, he was formally arraigned by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (OAGF) on a comprehensive 23-count charge. These charges included culpable homicide, which under Nigerian law signifies causing death without the direct intention to kill, but through unlawful actions or negligence. Other serious charges leveled against him included cr!minal intimidation, cruelty to children, and spousal b@ttery, indicating a pattern of alleged abusive behavior within the family.
Throughout the protracted trial, the prosecution meticulously presented its case, calling a total of 17 witnesses. Among those who testified were Osinachi's two children, who bravely recounted the alleged abuse they witnessed within their household. The prosecution also submitted a substantial amount of documentary evidence, totaling 25 exhibits, to support their claims against the defendant.
In his defense, Peter Nwachukwu presented his own testimony and called four witnesses to support his version of events. He also submitted four exhibits. However, after careful consideration of all the evidence presented, Justice Nwosu-Iheme concluded that the prosecution had successfully discharged the burden of proof placed upon them by law, leading to the guilty verdict on the charge of culpable homicide.
During the sentencing hearing, Nwachukwu's legal counsel, Reginald Nwali, made a passionate plea for leniency from the court. Conversely, the prosecuting counsel, Mrs. Aderonke Imala, urged the court to uphold the sanctity of the law and deliver a sentence that reflects the gravity of the crime committed.
In delivering the sentence of death by hanging, Justice Nwosu-Iheme emphasized the severity of the offense and the tragic loss of a talented life. While the full reasoning behind the sentence will be detailed in the official court records, the verdict sends a strong message against domestic violence and underscores the Nigerian legal system's commitment to holding perpetrators accountable.
The sentencing of Peter Nwachukwu marks a significant moment for victims of domestic violence in Nigeria and globally. It is hoped that this case will raise further awareness about the issue and encourage more victims to seek help, while also sending a clear deterrent to potential abusers.
