Meet Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme: The Federal High Court Judge Who Sentenced Peter Nwachukwu to Death by Hanging
Justice Njideka Nwosu-Iheme, who in a landmark ruling sentenced Peter Nwachukwu—the husband of late gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu—to death by hanging for culpable homicide, is a prominent figure in Nigeria’s judiciary. She is the daughter of former Rivers State Governor, Dr. Peter Odili, and retired Supreme Court Justice Mary Odili. She is married to Uzoma Nwosu-Iheme, son of Court of Appeal Justice Chioma Nwosu-Iheme.
As of 2025, Justice Nwosu-Iheme has served four years on the bench of the Federal High Court. She found Peter Nwachukwu guilty of causing the death of his wife, Osinachi Nwachukwu, which occurred on April 8, 2022. The case, widely followed across the country, remains the most notable judgment of her career to date.
Born and raised in Rivers State, South-South Nigeria, she received her early education there. Her appointment to the Federal High Court sparked some controversy, with critics alleging that her selection was influenced by nepotism due to her well-connected family ties. However, the National Judicial Council (NJC) defended the process, stating that all appointed judges, including Justice Nwosu-Iheme, met the required qualifications.
Following the retirement of her mother in May 2022, Justice Nwosu-Iheme has been seen by many as continuing her family’s legacy within Nigeria’s judiciary
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