Victoria Mbangwa
The trial of Timileyin Ajayi, a gospel singer accused of killing Salome Adaidu, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, is set to commence in March. Ajayi, who appeared in court on Monday, January 27, pleaded not guilty to the charge of culpable homicide, which is punishable by death.
The tragic Incident occurred at Ajayi’s residence in Nasarawa State, prompting his arrest by the police on January 12. The arraignment took place before Justice Simeon Aboki at Court 2 in Lafia, where the court adjourned the case to March 17–20 for trial.
Speaking on the case, Stanley Nwaforagu, Officer-in-Charge, Legal, at the Nasarawa State Police Command, expressed confidence in the evidence gathered by the prosecution.
Nwaforagu stated, “Today, the 27th day of January 2025, the defendant, Mr Timileyin Ajayi, was properly arraigned before this Honourable court on the one count charge of culpable homicide punishable with death.
“His plea was taken and he pleaded not guilty to the charge. And a date was set for trial. The case is now adjourned to the 17th to 20th day of March for trial.
“The court is desirous of giving it a speedy, accelerated trial and it is a welcome development. We have overwhelming evidence to sustain the charge and we are optimistic that justice will be done.”
On the defense team, Ajayi’s lawyer, Joseph Tukur, assured that his client would receive fair legal representation. “Today was basically for arraignment. And as the law demands, he has entered his plea already, so we have taken a day for hearing.” Tukur remarked.
The case has drawn significant attention, with many calling for justice for the late Salome Adaidu, who had been serving her country as part of the NYSC program before her untimely death.
As the legal battle unfolds, the trial’s outcome will be closely watched, with the court expected to carefully examine the evidence and deliver a fair judgment.
