A Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt has sentenced a 400-level University of Port Harcourt student, Damian Okoligwe, to death by hanging for the murder of his girlfriend, Justina Otuene.The judgment, delivered on Friday by Justice Chinwe Nsirim-Nwosu, brings closure to a case that has gripped the UNIPORT community since 2023.
Okoligwe, a Petrochemical Engineering student, was found guilty of killing Otuene, a 300-level Biochemistry student, on October 20, 2023, at his residence in Mgbuoba, Obio-Akpor Local Government Area. He dismembered her body and attempted to dispose of the remains in a wheelbarrow before he was apprehended. In her ruling, Justice Nsirim-Nwosu stated that the prosecution had proven all elements of the offence beyond reasonable doubt. She described Okoligwe’s actions as “intentional, composed, calculated, coordinated, and evil,” noting that the evidence before the court contained no contradictions.
The court ordered that Okoligwe “be hanged until death,” formally sealing his conviction and delivering justice for the family of the late Otuene. The ruling drew mixed reactions outside the courtroom.Prosecution counsel, Charles Mbaba, welcomed the judgment, saying, “Justice has been done and is seen and felt to be done in respect of Justina Otuene.” He added that he hoped the verdict would serve as a deterrent to young people who believe that shortcuts are the only route to quick wealth.
The deceased’s elder brother, Osatawaji Otuene, also expressed relief, describing the ruling as well-structured and reassuring. “It is certain that my sister didn’t die for nothing,” he said, noting that the verdict brought comfort to the family.
Source: https://www.nigeriainfo.fm/
