A Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt has sentenced a 400-level University of Port Harcourt student, Damian Okoligwe, to death by hanging after finding him guilty of murdering his girlfriend, Justina Otuene.
Okoligwe, a student of Petrochemical Engineering, was convicted for killing Otuene, a 300-level Biochemistry undergraduate, on October 20, 2023, at his residence in the Mgbuoba area of Obio-Akpor Local Government.
Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice Chinwe Nsirim-Nwosu ruled that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt. The court held that the evidence showed the act was intentional and premeditated.
Justice Nsirim-Nwosu therefore ordered that the defendant be executed according to law.
Speaking to journalists after the verdict, the prosecuting counsel, Charles Mbaba, said the judgment was a relief to the family and a strong message to young people against crime.
“Justice has finally been served. We believe this will bring some comfort to the family of Justina Otuene,” Mbaba said, noting that the court’s decision would deter others inclined toward criminal behaviour.
The defence team declined comments on the ruling.
Reacting to the judgment, the deceased’s elder brother, Osatawaji Otuene, said the family was grateful for the thoroughness of the court, adding that the verdict brought a measure of closure.
“It is a relief because it confirms that my sister did not die in vain,” he said.
— Hobnob News
