A Nigerian student studying in Cyprus, Obasi Chimezirm Princewill, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a female student in her dormitory and videotaping the incident without her consent. The crime took place in Nicosia Hamitköy between 10:30 p.m. and 1:30 a.m. on the night of March 25 to 26, 2023. Princewill, who was a law student at the time, allegedly entered the victim’s room, strangled her, and committed sexual assault on three separate occasions. The victim and the defendant were acquaintances prior to the incident.
During the trial at the Nicosia High Criminal Court, police Sergeant Mustafa Mahan testified that authorities had received multiple prior reports of rape allegations against Princewill. He further revealed that the defendant had allegedly offered N500,000 to silence previous complainants. The court, presided over by Senior Judge Vedia Berkut Barkin and Judge Gulay Uğur, found Princewill guilty on all charges and imposed the 14-year prison sentence. Judge Barkin emphasized that Princewill had entered Cyprus as a student but later became an illegal immigrant, which she noted as a significant factor in the case.
The court also highlighted several aggravating circumstances, including the act of videotaping the victim without consent, evading arrest, and showing no remorse throughout the trial. These factors, combined with recent amendments to Cyprus’s criminal law aimed at increasing penalties for sexual offences, led to the harsh sentencing. The judgment underscored the country’s commitment to protecting victims and holding perpetrators accountable, regardless of nationality.
Public reaction to the verdict has been mixed, with many Nigerians expressing relief that justice was served outside Nigeria. Social media users praised the decision, with @balonitaloni stating, “Fourteen years is too small. But glad you disgusting people face justice outside Nigeria. Too much enablement in that lawless country.” Others called for even harsher penalties, with @mightified001 urging authorities to arrest and deport Nigerian scammers. @spencermcclain linked the incident to rising anti-Nigerian sentiments in South Africa and Ghana, saying, “This is the reason why South Africans are kicking you guys from their country, and I stand with them and I stand with the Ghanaian as well.”
The case has sparked broader discussions about crime, immigration, and justice for Nigerian nationals abroad. As Nigeria continues to grapple with issues of crime and legal enforcement, this verdict serves as a reminder that actions have consequences, even beyond national borders. The outcome may influence how Nigerian students and immigrants are perceived and treated in foreign countries, particularly where legal systems are more stringent.
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