Peter Nwachukwu sentenced to death by hanging for the killing of gospel singer Osinachi.
The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), sitting at Wuse Zone 2 in Abuja, has sentenced Peter Nwachukwu, husband of the late gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu, to death by hanging.
Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme delivered the verdict on Friday after finding Nwachukwu guilty of culpable homicide, leading to his wife’s death on April 8, 2022, according to AIT Live.
The judgment followed months of extensive hearings and legal arguments. According to court proceedings, the prosecution successfully established that Nwachukwu’s actions directly resulted in Osinachi’s death.
The evidence presented convinced the court that the burden of proof required by law had been met beyond reasonable doubt.
Osinachi Nwachukwu, widely celebrated for her gospel hit song “Ekwueme,” died under controversial circumstances that initially suggested natural causes. However, testimonies from family members, friends, and medical experts later revealed allegations of severe domestic abuse, shifting the investigation toward her husband.
The Federal Government had filed 23-count charges against Peter Nwachukwu, ranging from domestic violence to culpable homicide. Witnesses described years of physical and emotional abuse suffered by the late singer, painting a grim picture of her marital life behind the fame.
Justice Nwosu-Iheme ruled that the evidence presented left no doubt that Nwachukwu’s violent behavior was directly responsible for his wife’s death. The judge emphasized that the severity of the case warranted the maximum sentence allowable under Nigerian law for culpable homicide.
“The defendant shall be hanged by the neck until he is dead. May God have mercy on his soul,” Justice Nwosu-Iheme pronounced during the sentencing.
The case stirred widespread public interest across Nigeria, with many rights activists and religious groups calling for justice in memory of Osinachi. Her death sparked national conversations about domestic violence, especially within conservative religious communities, prompting renewed advocacy for stronger protection for victims.
Nwachukwu’s defense team has not yet publicly indicated whether they will appeal the judgment. Meanwhile, tributes continue to pour in for Osinachi, with many describing her as a voice of hope tragically silenced by abuse.
Authorities have urged citizens facing domestic violence to speak out and seek help before situations escalate into tragedy. Human rights organizations have also intensified their campaigns, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and legal support for victims.
The sentencing of Peter Nwachukwu marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s judicial history, particularly regarding domestic violence and the protection of vulnerable individuals within family settings.
Osinachi is survived by her four children, who have since been placed under the care of extended family members.
As the nation reflects on the outcome of this case, Osinachi’s legacy as a gifted gospel singer and a victim of domestic violence continues to resonate with millions across the country.
