January 27, (THEWILL) – Timileyin Ajayi, the boyfriend and prime suspect in the gruesome murder of Salome Adaidu, has pleaded not guilty to a charge of culpable homicide before a Nasarawa State High Court.
Ajayi, who was arrested by the Nasarawa State Police Command on January 12, is facing a one-count charge of culpable homicide, punishable by death under Section 221 of the Penal Code of Northern Nigeria.
The suspect is accused of inviting Salome, a serving corps member, to his residence, where she was allegedly murdered and her body dismembered. Police reports indicate that Ajayi initially confessed to the crime, claiming he killed Salome after accusing her of infidelity.
During his arraignment before Justice Simon Aboki at High Court 2, Lafia, on Monday, Ajayi entered a plea of not guilty.
Speaking after the court session, Stanley Nwaforagu, Officer-in-Charge, Legal, Nasarawa State Police Command, assured that the police had gathered substantial evidence to prosecute the case.
“Today, January 27, 2025, the defendant, Mr. Timileyin Ajayi, was properly arraigned before this Honourable Court on a one-count charge of culpable homicide punishable with death. His plea was taken, and he pleaded not guilty to the charge. The court has adjourned the case to March 17 and 20 for trial,” Nwaforagu said.
He further reiterated the police’s commitment to ensuring justice is served, expressing confidence in the strength of the evidence against Ajayi.
On his part, counsel to the defendant, Joseph Tukur, stated that he would ensure the defense fulfills its duty to ensure that the prosecution presents its case in full compliance with legal standards.
“The role of the defense is to ensure the prosecution does its work properly by proving the case beyond a reasonable doubt,” Tukur said.
Meanwhile, Justice Aboki ordered that Ajayi be remanded in a correctional facility in Nasarawa State pending the commencement of trial.
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