By Kenneth Atavti
The alleged culpable homicide suit against Peter Nwachukwu, husband of the late gospel singer, Osinachi in a Federal Capital Territory High Court yesterday, was stepped down in order for his lawyers to align themselves to represent him.
When the matter slated for hearing before Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme came up, the Prosecution Counsel, Aderonke Imana, informed the court that the matter was for hearing and that they were ready to proceed.
A. Ogbonna also announced his appearance by watching briefs of the nominal complainant.
The counsel that represented the defendant during his arraignment, Victor Abakpa, however prayed the court to adjourn the matter until Today, as another lawyer from a different chamber just informed that he was taking over the case.
He further stated that he was equally served additional proof of evidence in the court just before the court started the day’s proceedings.
I.A Aliyu on his part informed the court that he was briefed by the defendant on June 18 to take over the case.
The court therefore stepped down the case to 11am in order for counsel to align themselves and come proper before it.
At yesterday’s proceedings, family members of the deceased singer, Osinachi were in court.
Prominent amongst the family members were her two children, mother and twin sister.
The matter which was adjourned until June 16, 2022 could not go on due to the absence of the judge.
The defendant was earlier arraigned on June 3, and was remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre after he pleaded not guilty to the alleged homicide charge filed against him by the Attorney -General of the Federation.
He was therefore remanded pending the hearing and determination of the
23-count charge bordering on domestic violence and homicide instituted against him.
Nwachukwu was arrested by the Nigeria Police after his wife died on April 8 following widespread allegations by their children, family and colleagues that he battered her leading to her death.
According to the charge, the crime he allegedly committed contravenes Sections 104 and 379 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, (ACJA) 2015, Section 221 of the Penal Code and the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP) 2015.
