The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court sitting at Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, delivered a landmark judgment on Monday that reverberated across Nigeria. Justice Nwosu-Iheme sentenced Peter Nwachukwu, the husband of late gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu, to death by hanging after finding him guilty of culpable homicide in connection with his wife’s tragic death on April 8, 2022. This high-profile case, which captured the nation’s attention, has become a powerful symbol in the fight against domestic violence.
A Promising Star Silenced Too Soon
Born in 1979, Osinachi Nwachukwu rose to fame as one of Nigeria’s most cherished gospel singers. Her powerful voice, immortalized in the viral hit “Ekwueme,” inspired millions. Yet, behind her public image of strength and spirituality, Osinachi lived a private life marred by relentless abuse. Accounts from family, friends, and colleagues painted a chilling picture of sustained physical and emotional violence at the hands of her husband, Peter Nwachukwu.
The Hidden Agony Behind the Music
While Osinachi graced stages with her anointed voice, her private world remained one of control, fear, and silence. Friends later revealed that Peter dictated every aspect of her career and personal life. He chose her performances, received payments on her behalf, and often subjected her to brutal assaults. Gospel musician Frank Edwards once disclosed how Peter disrupted a recording session, allegedly assaulting Osinachi for singing in her native Igbo language.
Many friends noticed bruises on her body, but Osinachi always attributed her injuries to accidents. Some colleagues said she confided in them, but her strong religious beliefs and deep concern for her children prevented her from walking away from the abusive marriage.
The Fatal Blow That Ended It All
On April 8, 2022, the years of hidden torment came to a tragic end. Reports revealed that during a domestic dispute, Peter allegedly kicked Osinachi in the chest, causing severe internal injuries. She was rushed to the National Hospital in Abuja and placed on life support. Despite all efforts by medical personnel, Osinachi succumbed to her injuries after five days.
Initially, some reports suggested throat cancer as the cause of death. However, her family quickly refuted that claim. Her older sister, Ms. Favor Made, clarified that Osinachi had no history of cancer. Instead, the autopsy confirmed that blunt force trauma to the chest caused blood clots, leading to her death.
Swift Arrest and Gripping Trial
Public outrage erupted immediately after Osinachi’s death, compelling law enforcement to act quickly. Authorities arrested Peter Nwachukwu and filed a 23-count indictment against him, including charges of culpable homicide, spousal battery, child cruelty, and criminal intimidation.
The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (OAGF) meticulously built its case. Seventeen witnesses, including two of the couple’s children, testified about the horrifying abuse they witnessed. The prosecution also presented 25 crucial documents, including hospital records and the autopsy report, painting a compelling picture of a sustained pattern of violence.
Although Peter Nwachukwu mounted a defense by testifying personally and calling four witnesses, the defense faltered. Justice Nwosu-Iheme ruled that the evidence against him was overwhelming and convincing beyond a reasonable doubt.
Delivering Justice: The Final Verdict
Before sentencing, Peter’s lawyer, Reginald Nwali, pleaded for leniency, citing Peter’s role as a father. However, prosecutor Mrs. Aderonke Imana urged the court to prioritize justice for Osinachi and for all victims of domestic violence.
Justice Nwosu-Iheme, emphasizing the gravity of Peter’s crimes and the need for deterrence, sentenced him to death by hanging for culpable homicide. Additionally, the court imposed multiple concurrent sentences: two years each on counts 2, 3, 8, 9, 12, 13, and 18; six months on count 10; and three years on count 11. Fines of ₦500,000 and ₦200,000 were also imposed on counts 6 and 7, respectively.
Public Reactions and a National Awakening
Across Nigeria, the verdict ignited widespread discussions. Many citizens hailed the ruling as a historic victory for victims of domestic violence. Social media platforms, religious communities, and advocacy groups buzzed with renewed calls for stronger protection for vulnerable individuals.
At the same time, the case exposed deep-rooted societal challenges. Cultural and religious norms often pressure women to endure abusive marriages rather than seek freedom. In Osinachi’s situation, reports suggested that even church leaders knew of her suffering yet failed to intervene effectively.
Women’s rights organizations, such as Stand to End Rape (STER) and Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF), renewed their appeals for systemic change. They urged authorities to create stronger support systems for victims and called on religious institutions to shift their messaging toward safety and empowerment, rather than endurance at all costs.
The Broader Crisis of Domestic Violence in Nigeria
Osinachi’s case, though highly publicized, is not unique. According to the 2021 National Demographic and Health Survey, over 30% of Nigerian women aged 15–49 have experienced physical violence. However, fear, societal stigma, financial dependence, and religious teachings often trap women in abusive homes.
Although Nigeria enacted the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act in 2015 to combat various forms of abuse, enforcement remains inconsistent, particularly in rural communities. Osinachi’s tragic death reignited national demands for stricter enforcement, more protective shelters, accessible legal support, and public education campaigns to dismantle the culture of silence.
A Legacy That Must Inspire Change
While Osinachi’s voice has been silenced, her legacy continues to speak loudly across Nigeria. Her tragic story has challenged long-held societal beliefs, prompting a much-needed national conversation about domestic violence and women’s rights.
Peter Nwachukwu’s sentencing delivers a measure of justice, but the larger battle remains. How many more Osinachis must suffer before real societal change takes hold?
As the memory of the gospel star lingers in the hearts of millions, her story now fuels a movement toward a safer, more just society—one where no voice goes unheard, and no life is needlessly lost to silence and fear.
