A High Court in Abuja’s Federal Capital Territory has sentenced Peter Nwachukwu, husband of the late gospel artist Osinachi Nwachukwu, to death by hanging after finding him guilty of culpable homicide.
The verdict, delivered by Justice Nwosu-Iheme on Monday, April 28, 2025, followed a highly publicized trial that garnered national and international attention.
Tragic Death and Legal Battle
Osinachi Nwachukwu, a beloved gospel singer known for her powerful worship songs, died on April 8, 2022, at the age of 42. While her husband initially claimed she died from an undisclosed illness, allegations of prolonged domestic abuse quickly emerged, prompting a criminal investigation.
After months of proceedings, the court ruled that the prosecution had sufficiently proven Peter Nwachukwu’s responsibility for her death. He faced 23 charges, including spousal battery, criminal intimidation, child abuse, and related offenses.
Despite maintaining his innocence, the evidence—including testimonies from 17 witnesses (two of whom were their children) and 25 documentary exhibits—proved overwhelming. Nwachukwu’s defense included four witnesses and four documents, but it failed to sway the court.
Sentencing and Additional Penalties
Justice Nwosu-Iheme sentenced Nwachukwu to death by hanging for the main charge of culpable homicide. In addition to the death sentence, he received multiple prison terms, ranging from six months to two years, and financial penalties for various lesser charges.
The judge emphasized that the evidence clearly established a consistent pattern of physical and emotional abuse throughout the marriage.
Osinachi’s Musical Legacy
Osinachi Nwachukwu left a lasting legacy in African gospel music. She rose to prominence with the hit worship song Ekwueme, a 2017 collaboration with Prospa Ochimana that has since surpassed 71 million views on YouTube.
Her other well-loved tracks include Nara Ekele with Pastor Paul Enenche and You No Dey Use Me Play featuring Emma. Her death shocked the nation and reignited discussions around domestic violence and women’s safety in Nigeria.
The ruling brings some measure of justice to Osinachi’s family, fans, and the broader gospel music community, who continue to mourn her untimely loss.