Judge’s absence stalls ‘homicide’ trial of Osinachi’s husband

The absence of a judge has stalled the trial of Peter Nwachukwu, husband of the late singer Osinachi Nwachukwu.

The high court in Abuja presiding over the alleged homicide and domestic violence case against Peter was expected to sit on Thursday.

Osinachi was alleged to have been a silent victim of domestic assault from Peter, her now-embattled husband.

The gospel singer, who passed away on April 8, was initially thought to have died of throat cancer.

But associates claimed it may be connected to an assault by her husband who was later arrested.

The federal government had filed a 23-count charge against Peter.

Njideka Nwosu-Iheme, the presiding judge, had on June 3, ordered that Peter be remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre.

The judge had also fixed Thursday and Friday for hearing after Peter pleaded not guilty to the alleged homicide charge.

Although the defendant was in court, the judge, however, was absent from Thursday’s proceeding.

The court officials said they could not divulge the reason for her absence.

They, in addition, stated that the court had fixed June 20 and 21, for hearing.