A Rivers State High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has sentenced a 400 level Petrochemical Engineering student of the University of Port Harcourt, Damian Okoligwe, to death by hanging for killing his girlfriend, Justina Otuene, a 300 level Biochemistry student of the same institution.
The court delivered the judgment on Friday after finding Okoligwe guilty of murdering the 20 year old student at his residence in October 2023.
Justice Chiwen Nsirim Nwosu ruled that the prosecution, led by Charles Obediah Mbaba, proved the case beyond reasonable doubt and established that Okoligwe’s actions led directly to Justina’s death.
Okoligwe was arrested in 2023 after neighbours raised alarm when he attempted to dispose of Justina’s body.
Before the arrest, a neighbour had complained to the Ozuoba Police Division about a foul odour coming from his room. Operatives forced their way in and found a Ghana must go bag containing Justina’s dismembered body.
A family representative speaking after the judgment said, “We can only hope and believe that this judgment allows Justina’s soul to finally rest in peace. I also hope it serves as a warning to young people who think shortcuts are the only way to achieve wealth. This ruling should remind youths to work hard and respect the laws of the land.”
Justina’s elder brother, Osat Awaji Otuene, expressed relief at the outcome, saying the judgment brought some comfort to the family. “I feel at peace about the outcome. The judgment was thorough and well structured. I want to commend Justice Nsirim for handling the case meticulously,” he said.
He added that everything was coordinated properly in court and stressed that the verdict serves as closure.
“It is a relief to know that my sister’s death was not in vain and this verdict brings some closure to our family,” he said.
