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Summary
Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme has gained national attention after sentencing Peter Nwachukwu to death for culpable homicide, an act widely praised as a landmark moment for justice and women's protection in Nigeria.
Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme, a judge of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, has become nationally prominent following her ruling in the high-profile case of Peter Nwachukwu, the husband of the late gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu.
Justice Nwosu-Iheme was sworn in as a Federal Capital Territory High Court judge on November 23, 2021, by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, alongside 20 other appointees.
A reputation for diligence, integrity, and a strong work ethic has marked her legal career. As of 2025, she has served four years as a High Court judge. She was born and raised in Rivers State, South-South Nigeria, where she had her early education. She is also the daughter of former Rivers State Governor Peter Odili and Justice Mary Odili.
On April 28, at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, Justice Njideka sentenced Peter Nwachukwu to death by hanging after finding him guilty of culpable homicide. The court concluded that his actions directly led to the death of his wife, Osinachi, on April 8, 2022.
In her ruling, Justice Nwosu-Iheme stated that the prosecution had successfully discharged the burden of proof required by law. The prosecuting counsel, Ms. Aderonke Imana, had urged the court to apply the full weight of the law, and the judge agreed, declaring that “the prosecution has proven the burden of proof placed on it by the law.”
Following the ruling, many gender advocates expressed strong support for Justice Ndijeka’s judgment, seeing it as a powerful example of justice served. Simbiat Bakare, founder of Naija Feminists Media, also highlighted the importance of women in positions of authority where decisions can directly impact women’s safety and rights.
“It is only a woman who can deliver such a type of justice,” she said. “I’m not surprised. A man could have given him just five years in prison or something.”
Justice Njideka continues to be recognised for her professionalism and commitment to justice, symbolising accountability within the Nigerian legal system
