Man Sentenced to Life for Friend's Death at Party

Ekang Philip Bassei was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court for the unlawful killing of his friend Emeka Nnonifu during a birthday celebration on January 6, 2024. The judgment was delivered by Justice M.S.

Idri, who noted that although the prosecution failed to establish the intent required for a murder conviction, evidence proved that Bassei unlawfully caused Nnonifu's death. The incident occurred at a hotel in Kubwa, where a physical confrontation between the two friends escalated after Bassei slapped and pushed Nnonifu, causing him to fall and hit his head on a concrete surface.

Nnonifu sustained fatal injuries and was confirmed dead shortly after. The prosecution initially charged Bassei with culpable homicide, punishable by death under Section 220(b) of the Penal Code, but the court ultimately found him guilty under Section 224 of the Penal Code, sentencing him to life imprisonment.

FCT Police Command emphasized their commitment to ensuring justice is served.