BREAKING: LAGOS‑BASED GOSPEL SINGER SENTENCED TO DEATH IN AJAOKUTA FOR MURDER OF NYSC MEMBER
Lafia, Nasarawa State, June 26, 2025 – In a landmark ruling today, the High Court in Lafia sentenced 32-year-old gospel singer Oluwatimileyin “Timileyin” Ajayi to death by hanging for the brutal murder and dismemberment of 24-year-old National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member Salome Adaidu.
Justice Simon Aboki presided over the case, finding Ajayi guilty of culpable homicide under Section 221 of the Northern Nigeria Penal Code, a provision that mandates capital punishment. The judge noted the prosecution’s compelling case, which included Ajayi’s confession and forensic evidence of dismemberment
January 12, 2025: Salome Adaidu, serving with NYSC at Nicon Insurance in Abuja, visited Ajayi’s home in Papalana, New Karshi, Nasarawa State, where she was killed. The following day, Ajayi was seen in Orozo, Abuja, with Salome’s severed head in a polybag. Churchgoers apprehended him, leading to his arrest.
Ajayi confessed in court, claiming the killing stemmed from jealousy upon discovering messages on Salome’s phone: “I killed her because we don’t have each other all the time… I saw her chats with other guys… I have no regrets.”
He emphasized it was unplanned, driven by emotion, not premeditation.
The verdict followed months of trial and national outrage, especially among gender‑based violence advocates. The case has reignited calls for stronger protections for women and accountability in violent crimes
Salome, a devoted and active NYSC member, was laid to rest in Benue State on January 14, 2025, following widespread mourning.
While the death sentence is final, Ajayi is legally eligible to appeal the verdict. His fate now hinges on whether his legal team pursues an appeal and if any stays of execution are sought.
Summary: The High Court in Lafia delivered a death sentence to gospel singer Oluwatimileyin Ajayi for the gruesome murder of Salome Adaidu. With the accused’s confession, body evidence, and judicial proceedings meeting legal standards, the verdict is in line with the Criminal Code’s mandates. The convicted retains the right to appeal.
By Ossai Marilyn.
