Ekang Philip Bassey has been sentenced to life behind bars by the Federal Capital Territory High Court for the death of his friend, Emeka Nnonifu. The incident took place during a birthday event on January 6, 2024, at a hotel located in Kubwa, Abuja.
Justice M. S. Idris presided over the case. While the police initially pursued charges related to homicide punishable by death, the court ultimately found the defendant guilty of culpable homicide under Section 224 of the Penal Code. Although the prosecution proved Bassey caused the death, the court determined there was insufficient evidence to confirm he intended to kill his friend.
The conflict reportedly began with a verbal argument that turned physical. Evidence revealed that Bassey pushed and slapped Nnonifu, causing him to collapse and strike his head against concrete. These injuries proved fatal. Following the ruling, the FCT Police Command stated they remain dedicated to pursuing justice and enforcing legal standards within the territory.
