A man received a death sentence in Nigeria for setting his wife on fire, resulting in her death and her brother’s.
The incident occurred at her Lagos family home in April 2022. Her husband, Benjamin Ogudoro, 53, committed the crime. He used a petroleum substance to set them ablaze. They were asleep when he attacked.
Chinyere moved to Scotland in 2017 with her children. She studied at Glasgow Caledonian University. She earned a master’s degree in business management. She started a management company in Glasgow.
Benjamin Ogudoro’s trial took place at Lagos State High Court. He was jealous of his wife’s career. He was angry that she owned their house. She returned to discuss his plan to sell it.
Ogudoro claimed the fire was an accident. The judge found him guilty of murder. Judge Serifat Sonaike sentenced him to death. He will be hanged for his crime.
Uche Uwalaka, the victims’ sister, testified. She spoke of their mother’s grief. Losing two children on one day caused her immense pain. She pleaded for justice.
Chinyere died at the scene on April 1, 2022. Ifeanyi died later in the hospital. He told police his brother-in-law was responsible. This became a dying declaration.
Ogudoro claimed he found the fire after returning from a bar. He said he tried to save them. He denied pouring fuel on his wife and her brother. He said he sustained injuries.
Justice Sonaike decided the attack was planned. She said the prosecution proved it. She called his actions “wickedness of the highest order.”
Glasgow Caledonian University remembered Chinyere. Dr. Colin Combe admired her dedication. He noted her focus on family. He said she wanted a better future for them.