Peter Nwachukwu, husband of the late gospel star Osinachi Nwachukwu, who beat her to death, has been sentenced to death by hanging by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja.

The ruling, delivered on Monday by Justice Nwosu-Iheme, found Nwachukwu guilty of culpable homicide in connection to Osinachi’s tragic death on April 8, 2022. The heartbreaking case shocked the nation and reignited serious discussions about domestic violence within Nigeria’s religious and social communities.

Justice Nwosu-Iheme ruled that the prosecution, led by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (OAGF), proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt — meeting the strict standards required for a conviction of this severity.

Nwachukwu was first arraigned on June 3, 2022, facing a 23-count charge that included allegations of homicide, spousal battery, child cruelty, and criminal intimidation.

Throughout the emotional trial, the prosecution presented 17 witnesses — including two of the couple’s children — whose testimonies revealed years of horrific abuse hidden behind the couple’s public image. The court also admitted 25 documents into evidence, all painting a grim and painful picture of sustained domestic violence.

In his defense, Nwachukwu testified on his own behalf and called four additional witnesses, while also submitting four exhibits in a bid to counter the charges — efforts that ultimately proved unsuccessful.