Timileyin Ajayi, the alleged killer of 24-year-old NYSC member Salome Adaidu, has pleaded not guilty to a charge of culpable homicide punishable by death.
Ajayi was arraigned on Monday before Justice Simon Aboki at the High Court of Justice, Lafia, Nasarawa State, where he was formally charged under Section 221 of the Penal Code of Northern Nigeria.
The 32-year-old was arrested for allegedly murdering Adaidu, who was serving at Nicon Insurance in Abuja. She was killed during a visit to Ajayi’s residence in the Papalana area of New Karshi, Karu Local Government Area, Nasarawa State.
Recall that Tribune Online reported Police apprehended Timileyin Ajayi on January 12, 2025, while attempting to dispose of Salome’s severed head after dismembering her body.
He was later paraded alongside the knife and machetes allegedly used in the crime.
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In an interview, Ajayi admitted to killing Salome, stating that 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 said.
He further claimed his actions were driven by suspicions of infidelity.
“She was cheating. She hides most things from me. I found out from her phone. I saw her chats with other guys, and that was why I decided,” he added.
Despite his admission, Ajayi expressed no remorse.
“I don’t have any regrets because life is reciprocal. If you must do something to someone, you have to be reciprocal with that person,” he stated.
The case has been adjourned as the court reviews the evidence.
