Peter Nwachukwu, the husband of the late renowned Nigerian gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu, has been sentenced to death by hanging after being found guilty of culpable homicide in connection with her tragic death on April 8, 2022.
The sentence was delivered today, Monday, April 28, by Justice Nwosu-Iheme of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja.
The court ruled that the prosecution had successfully met the required legal standard of proof, leading to Nwachukwu’s conviction on multiple charges, including murder, cruelty to children, and spousal abuse. The defendant was initially arraigned on June 3, 2022, facing a total of 23 charges encompassing serious offenses such as criminal intimidation and spousal battery.
Over the course of the trial, the prosecution presented testimony from 17 witnesses, including the courageous accounts of Osinachi Nwachukwu’s own children, who shared their experiences.
The prosecution also submitted 25 pieces of evidence to support their case, while the defense called five witnesses and presented four exhibits in an attempt to prove Nwachukwu’s innocence.
Despite a plea for leniency from Nwachukwu’s legal counsel, Justice Nwosu-Iheme proceeded with the imposition of the death penalty for the culpable homicide charge.
In addition to the death sentence, Peter Nwachukwu received multiple prison terms, including two-year sentences for several other charges, along with fines and other unspecified penalties.
This landmark judgment brings a somber close to a case that has garnered significant attention across Nigeria and internationally, highlighting the tragic consequences of domestic violence.
News of this verdict will likely resonate with many in Ghana, including those in Kumasi, who followed the deeply sad story of the beloved gospel singer.