By Prosper Mene
The High Court in Lafia, Nasarawa State, has sentenced 32-year-old gospel singer Oluwatimileyin “Timileyin” Ajayi to death by hanging for the murder and dismemberment of 24-year-old National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member Salome Eleojo Adaidu. The judgment, delivered on Thursday, June 26, 2025, by Justice Simon Aboki, ends the high-profile case that has gripped the nation since January 2025.
Ajayi, a gospel musician and self-acclaimed crypto trader, was convicted of culpable homicide under Section 221 of the Penal Code following a trial that drew widespread attention due to the gruesome nature of the crime and the accused’s public persona. The court found that Ajayi intentionally killed Adaidu, a corps member serving with NICON Insurance in Abuja, at his residence in the Papalana area of New Karshi, Nasarawa State, on January 12, 2025.
According to court documents and police reports, Ajayi was apprehended by churchgoers near Agwan Sarki, Orozo, a community bordering the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), while attempting to dispose of Adaidu’s severed head in a polythene bag. The discovery of her dismembered remains in his possession caused national outrage, with videos circulating on social media showing flies trailing Ajayi as he carried the bag. During police interrogation, Ajayi confessed to the crime, claiming he acted in a fit of rage after discovering Adaidu’s chats with other men, alleging she was cheating on him. He reportedly stated, “She was my girlfriend. She was always cheating on me… I have no regrets.” However, Adaidu’s family vehemently denied any romantic relationship between her and Ajayi, describing her death as “senseless and barbaric.”
The trial, which began in January 2025, had various dramatic moments, including Ajayi’s not guilty plea despite overwhelming evidence, his visible prayers in court while clutching a Bible, and emotional testimonies from Adaidu’s relatives. The prosecution, led by the Nasarawa State Ministry of Justice, presented compelling evidence, including Ajayi’s confession, forensic findings, and testimonies from three witnesses who confirmed the recovery of Adaidu’s dismembered body from Ajayi’s possession. The defense, represented by Jibrin Okutepa (SAN), argued that the prosecution failed to prove premeditated intent, but the court dismissed this claim, citing “overwhelming evidence” of Ajayi’s guilt.
Delivering the judgment, Justice Aboki stated, “The evidence before the court clearly shows that the accused intentionally caused the death of the deceased… The punishment is death. Therefore, the accused is hereby sentenced to death by hanging.” The ruling has reignited public debate on gender-based violence, with rights groups and Adaidu’s family hailing the verdict as a step toward justice. Samson Adaidu, the victim’s uncle, expressed satisfaction with the judgment, thanking Nigerians for their support throughout the trial.
Salome Adaidu, who hailed from Benue State, was laid to rest in her hometown in January 2025, days after her murder became public. Her death prompted widespread calls for justice, with hashtags like #JusticeForSalome trending on social media. The case has also highlighted the rarity of death sentences in Nigeria, where executions are infrequently carried out.
The message is clear: Salome got Justice for her gruesome killing.
