A Rivers State High Court has sentenced Damian Okoligwe, a 400-level Petrochemical Engineering student at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), to death by hanging for the murder of his girlfriend, Justina Otuene.
The incident occurred on October 20, 2023, when Okoligwe allegedly killed Justina, a 300-level Biochemistry student, at his apartment in Mgbuoba, Obio-Akpor Local Government Area. After the killing, he reportedly dismembered her body and attempted to dispose of it in a wheelbarrow before being apprehended by authorities.
During the trial, Justice Chinwe Nsirim-Nwosu ruled that the prosecution had established the case beyond reasonable doubt. She described Okoligwe’s actions as “intentional, calculated, coordinated, and evil” and found no inconsistencies in the evidence presented.
In her verdict, the judge ordered that Okoligwe “be hanged on the neck until death is confirmed.”
Speaking after the ruling, Justina’s elder brother, Osatawaji Otuene, expressed relief. “It is comforting to know that my sister’s death was not in vain. The judgment was detailed and thorough, and it brings closure to our family,” he said.
Prosecution counsel Charles Mbaba also welcomed the sentence, emphasizing that it would not only bring justice for Justina but also serve as a warning to others who might consider taking shortcuts in life. He added, “We believe this verdict allows Justina’s soul to rest in peace.”
Okoligwe’s defense team declined to comment following the court proceedings.
