Timileyin Ajayi, a 32-year-old man accused of murdering his alleged girlfriend, Salome Adaidu, was arraigned before Justice Simon Aboki at the High Court of Justice, Lafia, Nasarawa State, on Monday.
Ajayi faces a charge of culpable homicide punishable by death, in line with Section 221 of the Penal Code of Northern Nigeria. During the court session, he pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The victim, Salome, was a 24-year-old member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) who was serving at Nicon Insurance in Abuja. She was killed during a visit to Ajayi’s home in the Papalana area of New Karshi, Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
The police reported that Ajayi murdered Salome, dismembered her body, and was caught while attempting to dispose of her head on January 12, 2025. Weapons used in the crime, including a knife and machetes, were recovered and presented by the police.
In an interview following his arrest, Ajayi admitted to the killing, claiming it was not premeditated. “I killed her because we don’t have each other all the time. It’s not something I planned. It happened on that day and it happened,” he confessed.
Ajayi accused Salome of infidelity, citing messages on her phone as the trigger for his actions. “She was cheating. She hides most things from me. I saw her chats with other guys on her phone, and that was why I decided to do it,” he explained.
When asked if he regretted his actions, Ajayi expressed no remorse. “I don’t have any regrets because life is reciprocal. You have to understand what someone is going through to know how to act. That is why I don’t have any regrets because we were actually compatible,” he stated.
The case has drawn public attention, with many demanding justice for Salome, who was described by her colleagues and friends as a kind and hardworking individual.
Justice Aboki has adjourned the case for further proceedings while Ajayi remains in custody.
