You Killed Your Wife Osinachi, So You Have to Die By Hanging, Court Sentences Gospel Singer’s Husband
The husband of late Nigerian gospel singer, Osinachi Nwachukwu, Peter Nwachukwu, has been sentenced to death by hanging for the killing of his wife.
The judgment was handed down on Monday by Justice Nwosu-Iheme of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Wuse Zone 2, in Abuja.
Peter Nwachukwu, who was arrested in April 2022, was found guilty of culpable homicide following the death of his wife, Osinachi, on April 8, 2022.
The court ruled that the prosecution had proven beyond reasonable doubt that Nwachukwu was responsible for his wife’s untimely death, which was a result of years of reported physical and emotional abuse.
The case, which attracted national attention, saw the prosecution presenting 17 witnesses, including Osinachi’s children, who gave harrowing testimony about the abuse they witnessed. In addition to the testimonies, 25 exhibits were presented in court.
The charges against Nwachukwu included culpable homicide punishable by death, criminal intimidation, cruelty to children, and spousal battery.
In his defense, Nwachukwu testified, alongside four other witnesses, but his claims were ultimately dismissed by the court. His counsel, Reginald Nwali, pleaded for leniency during the sentencing stage, while the prosecution, represented by Mrs. Aderonke Imala, urged the court to uphold the law and impose a just sentence.
Justice Nwosu-Iheme’s ruling did not only cover the charge of culpable homicide but also included additional sentences for various offenses. Nwachukwu was sentenced to two years imprisonment for each of the other counts, including charges related to child cruelty and intimidation.
The case has sparked widespread outrage, with many expressing their condolences for Osinachi’s family and calling for further measures to address domestic violence in Nigeria.
Osinachi, renowned for her gospel music ministry, passed away at the age of 42, leaving behind a legacy of powerful music and a family grappling with the tragic loss.
As the legal process continues, attention will be on any potential appeals or further developments in the case, as Nwachukwu faces the consequences of his actions.
This sentencing serves as a significant moment in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against domestic violence and highlights the importance of justice for victims of abuse.
