What began as a birthday celebration between two friends has ended in a life sentence, after the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court convicted Ekang Philip Bassey over the death of his friend, Emeka Nnonifu.
Justice M. S. Idris of FCT High Court 25 sentenced Bassey to life imprisonment after finding him guilty of culpable homicide in connection with the fatal incident that occurred on January 6, 2024, at a hotel in the Kubwa area of Abuja.
The conviction followed a prosecution by the FCT Police Command, which had initially charged the defendant with culpable homicide punishable by death under Sections 220(a) and (b), and Section 221 of the Penal Code, after concluding its investigation into the case.
According to evidence presented before the court, Bassey and the deceased were close friends, and the incident occurred during a birthday celebration organised by Nnonifu.
The celebration reportedly turned violent after a disagreement between the two men escalated into a physical confrontation.
During the trial, prosecutors established that Bassey slapped and pushed the deceased, causing him to fall and hit his head on a concrete surface.
The victim sustained severe head injuries and was later confirmed dead.
Court Rules on Intent
In its judgment in Suit No. FCT/HC/CR/330/2024, the court held that while the defendant’s unlawful actions directly caused the victim’s death, the prosecution failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that he intended to kill or had the knowledge required to sustain a conviction for culpable homicide punishable by death under Section 221 of the Penal Code.
However, the court found sufficient evidence that Bassey unlawfully caused the death of Nnonifu and consequently convicted him under Section 224 of the Penal Code, which provides for life imprisonment.
Police Reaffirm Commitment to Justice
Reacting to the judgment, the FCT Police Command described the conviction as a testament to its commitment to ensuring justice for victims of crime.
In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the FCT Command said it remains committed to conducting thorough investigations, prosecuting offenders and upholding the rule of law while protecting the constitutional rights of all persons.
The case serves as a stark reminder of how seemingly minor disputes can escalate into irreversible tragedies, leaving families and friends to bear the lifelong consequences.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.