HUSBAND OF LATE NIGERIAN GOSPEL SINGER OSINACHI SENTENCED TO DEATH FOR HER MURDER

Peter Nwachukwu, the widower of renowned Nigerian gospel artist Osinachi Nwachukwu, has been handed a death sentence by hanging for his role in her death three years ago.

Initially, the 42-year-old singer’s passing was attributed to throat cancer, but her family later revealed shocking claims of sustained domestic abuse. They alleged that her husband’s violent actions were responsible for her tragic demise. Following a trial, Nwachukwu was found guilty on 23 counts, including culpable homicide, and received the harshest penalty under the law.

Despite his denial of the charges, the High Court in Abuja upheld the conviction. However, it remains uncertain whether the sentence will be carried out, as executions are uncommon in Nigeria. Nwachukwu has the right to appeal the verdict.

The high-profile case has sparked national outrage, drawing attention not only due to the victim’s fame but also over growing concerns about domestic violence in the country. Osinachi, a mother of four, gained fame for her vocals on the 2017 gospel hit Ekwueme, which has amassed over 136 million views on YouTube.

Arrested in 2022, Nwachukwu faced additional charges, including emotional, verbal, and psychological abuse, as well as child cruelty and intimidation. Prosecutors presented 17 witnesses during the trial, including two of the couple’s children.

Presiding judge Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme ruled that the evidence against the defendant was conclusive, convicting him on all counts beyond reasonable doubt.