The no-case submission filed by Peter Nwachukwu, the husband of the late gospel singer, Osinachi, has been dismissed by the Federal Capital Territory, FCT High Court in Wuse Zone 2.
Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme ruled on Tuesday that the prosecution has presented sufficient evidence to proceed with the case against the defendant.
The Federal Government had charged Nwachukwu with 23 counts relating to the death of Osinachi.
After pleading not guilty, the judge ordered that Nwachukwu remain in custody at the Kuje correctional facility until further proceedings.
During the trial, which began on June 20, 2022, and concluded on March 10, 2023, the prosecution called 17 witnesses to testify.
Osinachi Nwachukwu, who passed away on April 8, 2022, was initially believed to have died from cancer. However, her family and friends alleged that her death was the result of assault by her husband. He was subsequently arrested, and the trial is ongoing.
Nwachukwu’s counsel, Aliyu, filed a no-case submission based on the autopsy report from the National Hospital in Abuja, which indicated no signs of violence on the deceased.
Aliyu argued that the evidence presented by medical practitioners cleared Nwachukwu of culpable homicide and domestic violence charges, and requested that the court dismiss all allegations against his client.
The autopsy report outlined the causes of Osinachi’s death, including organ pallor, leg swelling, fluid accumulation around the heart, tumor deposits in various organs, an enlarged heart, and restricted breathing due to fluid around the lungs.
However, the court rejected the no-case submission and ordered the defendant to present his defense.
