The trial of Oluwatimileyin Daniels Ajayi, the suspected killer of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member Salome Adaidu, commenced on Monday at High Court 2 in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
Prosecutors presented three out of five witnesses who testified against Ajayi, submitting their statements as evidence in court.
The witnesses alleged that the victim’s body was found in Ajayi’s possession.
Ajayi, who was first arraigned before Justice Simon Aboki in January, pleaded not guilty to the charge of culpable homicide.
The Nigeria Police had accused him of killing and dismembering Adaidu, a crime punishable by death under Section 221 of the Penal Code of Northern Nigeria.
The Nasarawa State Government took over the case and formally commenced the trial on Monday. During the session, prosecutors requested a correction of the suspect’s name from Timileyin Ajayi to Oluwatimileyin Daniels Ajayi.
Five statements, marked as exhibits A to E, were submitted as evidence and accepted by the court. The three witnesses recounted to the court how Ajayi was allegedly involved in Adaidu’s killing. They were cross-examined by the defense lawyer.
After listening to the arguments, Justice Simon Aboki adjourned the trial to continue from March 17 to March 20.
Speaking after the court session, prosecuting lawyer Raymond Umoru said, “The witnesses gave vital information as to what transpired. So we hope that at the end of the day, justice will be done.”
Defense lawyer Joseph Tuku-Bisong also commented, stating, “We have just started today, and we thank God for the success recorded. The prosecution called three witnesses, and we played our part by cross-examining them.”
Ajayi, a gospel singer, was arrested in January 2025 in Nasarawa State for the alleged murder and dismemberment of 24-year-old Adaidu. Authorities apprehended him near a church in Lafia after discovering Adaidu’s severed head in his possession.
Following his arrest, Ajayi confessed to the crime, claiming Adaidu’s supposed infidelity as his motive.
The case continues as the court prepares to hear further testimonies and evidence in the upcoming trial dates.
