The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has secured the conviction of Ekang Philip Bassey, who has been sentenced to life imprisonment by the FCT High Court 25 for the death of his friend Emeka Nnonifu. The incident occurred on 6 January 2024 at a hotel in the Kubwa area of Abuja.
Background of the Incident
According to evidence presented in court, the defendant and the deceased were friends. The deceased had organized a birthday celebration which the defendant attended. A disagreement between the two men escalated into a physical confrontation, ultimately leading to the fatal outcome.
Details of the Assault
During the trial, the prosecution led evidence establishing that the defendant assaulted the deceased by slapping and pushing him, causing him to fall and strike his head on a concrete surface. The deceased sustained fatal injuries and was subsequently confirmed dead.
Court's Judgment
In its judgment delivered in Suit No. FCT/HC/CR/330/2024, the court held that although the unlawful act of the defendant caused the death of the deceased, the requisite intention or knowledge necessary to sustain a conviction under Section 221 of the Penal Code was not established beyond reasonable doubt. However, the court held that the evidence adduced by the prosecution established that the defendant unlawfully caused the death of the deceased and consequently convicted him of culpable homicide under Section 224 of the Penal Code, sentencing him to life imprisonment.
Impact of the Ruling
This sentencing underscores the legal consequences of violent confrontations, even among friends. The FCT Police Command has reiterated its commitment to ensuring justice for victims of crime.
