Court sentences Osinachi’s husband to death by hanging for her murder

In a landmark judgment that has drawn widespread public attention, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja has sentenced Peter Nwachukwu, the husband of late Nigerian gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu, to death by hanging. This comes after he was found guilty of culpable homicide in connection with the death of his wife in 2022.

Osinachi, renowned for her powerful voice and her hit collaborations like “Ekwueme,” died under controversial circumstances, sparking a national debate about domestic violence and abuse within marriages. Initially, her death was reported as being due to throat cancer. However, investigations revealed that prolonged physical and emotional abuse contributed significantly to her deteriorating health and ultimate death.

The court found overwhelming evidence that Peter Nwachukwu subjected Osinachi to years of brutal physical assault, psychological abuse, and controlling behavior that eventually led to her demise. Medical reports, witness testimonies—including those of family members, neighbors, and church members—and forensic evidence painted a tragic picture of systemic domestic violence.

Delivering the judgment, the presiding judge stated that Peter’s actions amounted to intentional and sustained abuse, and ruled that he was guilty beyond reasonable doubt under Nigeria’s Criminal Code. The death sentence, handed down under Section 221 of the Penal Code, underscores Nigeria’s tough stance against gender-based violence, particularly when it leads to fatal outcomes.

The sentencing has been seen as a watershed moment in the fight against domestic violence in Nigeria, with activists hailing the judgment as justice not only for Osinachi but for countless other victims who suffer in silence. Many rights groups are using the verdict to renew calls for stronger protection mechanisms for women and stricter penalties for perpetrators of domestic abuse.

Peter Nwachukwu still has the legal option to appeal the sentence, but unless overturned by a higher court, the judgment stands.

Osinachi’s death has since become a rallying point for conversations about women’s rights, faith, culture, and systemic silence around abuse in conservative communities.

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