Timileyin Ajayi Suspected Killer Of Girlfriend Arraigned In Nasarawa High Court.
Timileyin Ajayi, the 32-year-old man accused of killing Salome Adaidu, a 24-year-old National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, has been arraigned at the High Court of Justice, Lafia, Nasarawa State.
Ajayi faces a charge of culpable homicide punishable by death, as defined under Section 221 of the Penal Code of Northern Nigeria. He appeared before Justice Simon Aboki on Monday, where he pleaded not guilty to the charge. The trial has been adjourned to 17th–20th March 2025 to ensure an accelerated process.
Legal Representatives Speak
The prosecuting counsel, Stanley Nwaforagwu, expressed confidence in the evidence against Ajayi, stating, “The defendant was properly arraigned, and his plea has been taken. We have overwhelming evidence to sustain the charge, and we are optimistic that justice will be served.”
Defence counsel Joseph Tukur noted that the legal process is being followed appropriately. “It is the duty of the prosecution to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. My role is to ensure the law is upheld and that my client is properly defended,” Tukur said.
Jibrin Okutekpa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria representing the family of the deceased, emphasised the importance of the case. “This is a matter of national significance, and we are here to ensure justice is done for the family of the deceased.”
The Tragic Incident
Salome Adaidu, who worked at Nicon Insurance in Abuja during her service year, was killed during a visit to Ajayi’s residence in Papalana, New Karshi, Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
Ajayi was arrested on 12th January 2025 while attempting to dispose of Salome’s dismembered remains. During police interrogation, he confessed to the crime, claiming it was driven by jealousy after discovering messages on her phone that suggested she was involved with other men.
In an interview, Ajayi stated, “I killed her because we don’t have each other all the time… She was cheating. I saw her chats with other guys on her phone, and that was why I decided.” He showed no remorse for his actions, adding, “I don’t have any regrets because life is reciprocal.”
Evidence and Investigation
The police paraded Ajayi alongside the knife and machetes he allegedly used in the murder. Investigations are ongoing, with the court set to determine the full circumstances of the crime.
The case has drawn significant public attention, with many calling for justice for Salome and her grieving family.
