In a landmark ruling that has reverberated across Nigeria’s music and legal landscapes, the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has sentenced Peter Nwachukwu, husband of late gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu, to death by hanging.
The verdict, delivered by Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme on Monday, marks a dramatic conclusion to a case that sparked national outcry over domestic violence and gender-based abuse.
The court found Nwachukwu guilty of culpable homicide in the tragic death of Osinachi, who passed away on April 8, 2022, at the age of 42.
Known for her powerful voice and soul-stirring performance on the hit gospel song “Ekwueme” in 2017, Osinachi’s death stunned millions of fans and drew renewed attention to the silent suffering of many women trapped in abusive marriages.
Initially arraigned on June 3, 2022, Peter Nwachukwu faced a 23-count charge brought by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation. The charges included spousal battery, child cruelty, criminal intimidation, and ultimately culpable homicide.
Throughout the trial, the prosecution built a compelling case with 17 witnesses—including two of the couple’s children—and presented 25 exhibits. In his defense, Nwachukwu took the stand alongside four witnesses and introduced four exhibits.
However, Justice Nwosu-Iheme ruled that the evidence presented by the prosecution proved beyond reasonable doubt that his actions directly contributed to Osinachi’s death.
Despite emotional pleas for leniency from his lawyer, Reginald Nwali, the court upheld the capital sentence under Count 1, and imposed additional prison terms ranging from six months to three years across other charges. Nwachukwu was also fined a total of ₦700,000.
Legal analysts have hailed the judgment as a significant step in Nigeria’s fight against domestic violence, while women’s rights groups are calling for more awareness, legal protections, and safe reporting mechanisms for abuse victims.
Since Osinachi’s passing, several colleagues and close associates have come forward with accounts of her years-long ordeal in an abusive marriage—allegations that gained weight and urgency in the wake of the court’s findings.
Today, as Nigeria remembers Osinachi not just as a gospel icon, but also as a symbol in the ongoing battle for justice and dignity for women, many are hoping that her story will inspire action and reform.
