FCT High Court Sentences Peter Nwachukwu To Death By Hanging For Killing Wife, Gospel Singer Osinachi
Justice Nwosu-Iheme of the FCT High Court, Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, has sentenced Peter Nwachukwu to death by hanging for killing his wife, late gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu.
Court Finds Peter Nwachukwu Guilty of Culpable Homicide
The judge ruled on Monday that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt, establishing Nwachukwu’s guilt for culpable homicide in connection with Osinachi’s death on April 8, 2022.
Details of Charges and Trial
The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation arraigned Nwachukwu on June 3, 2022, on a 23-count charge, including culpable homicide, spousal battery, cruelty to children, and criminal intimidation. During the trial, the prosecution called 17 witnesses, including two of the deceased’s children, and submitted 25 documents as evidence.
Defence Testimony and Pleas for Leniency
Nwachukwu testified in his defence and called four additional witnesses, presenting four exhibits. His counsel, Reginald Nwali, pleaded for leniency, while the prosecution counsel, Mrs. Aderonke Imala, urged the court to apply the full weight of the law.
Breakdown of Sentences
Justice Nwosu-Iheme sentenced Nwachukwu to death by hanging on Count 1. He also received two years imprisonment each on Counts 2, 3, 8, 9, 12, 13, and 18. The court imposed six months imprisonment on Count 10 and three years imprisonment on Count 11. Additionally, Nwachukwu must pay fines of ₦500,000 and ₦200,000 on Counts 6 and 7 respectively.
