Timileyin Ajayi sentenced to death by hanging for killing NYSC member Salome Adaidu

A Nasarawa State High Court sitting in Lafia has sentenced Oluwatimileyin Ajayi to death by hanging for the murder of Salome Adaidu, a 24-year-old National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member. The judgment was delivered on Wednesday, June 26, 2025, by Justice Simon Aboki, who ruled that the prosecution had successfully proven its case of culpable homicide under Section 221 of the Penal Code beyond reasonable doubt.

Ajayi was arrested on January 12, 2025, in the New Karshi area of Nasarawa State after neighbors raised alarm over a foul odor coming from his apartment. Upon investigation, dismembered body parts believed to be Salome’s were found hidden in bags. According to reports, Salome, who was serving in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), had gone to visit Ajayi—described as a gospel artist and former friend—before she was killed.

In his initial police statement, Ajayi reportedly confessed to the killing, claiming it was motivated by suspicions of infidelity. However, during his arraignment on January 27, he pleaded not guilty to the single charge of culpable homicide, and the case proceeded to trial.

The prosecution presented several witnesses and forensic evidence, including crime scene photographs and items recovered from the house. Witnesses testified that Ajayi attempted to dispose of the remains in a desperate attempt to cover up the crime. The court noted that the evidence overwhelmingly linked him to the murder.

Justice Aboki, while delivering his verdict, described the killing as “gruesome, deliberate, and void of human empathy.” He stated that the only appropriate punishment, in line with the law, was death by hanging. The courtroom was filled with emotional reactions from family members and NYSC officials who had followed the case closely.

Ajayi’s counsel has expressed intentions to appeal the judgment, arguing that the confession was obtained under duress and that the defense was not adequately considered. However, the court maintained that the weight of the evidence against the convict was too strong to ignore.

The tragic death of Salome Adaidu has drawn national attention, especially given her role as a youth corps member serving the nation. Advocacy groups have renewed calls for improved protection for young women and stricter measures against gender-based violence. Many Nigerians have also praised the court for delivering timely justice in a case that shocked the nation.