The High Court in Lafia, Nasarawa State has sentenced gospel singer Timileyin Ajayi to death by hanging for the gruesome murder of Salome Adaidu, a 23-year-old member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). The court found Ajayi guilty of culpable homicide under Section 221 of the Penal Code, which carries the mandatory death penalty.
Delivering the judgment, Justice Simon Aboki ruled that the prosecution had proven beyond reasonable doubt that Ajayi intentionally took the life of the young corps member during a violent altercation in January 2025. According to court proceedings, Ajayi claimed he was in a romantic relationship with Adaidu and murdered her in a fit of jealous rage after allegedly discovering messages on her phone that suggested she had been unfaithful.
“I didn’t plan to kill her,” Ajayi confessed during his trial. “She is always cheating. She hides most things from me. When I saw her phone and read her chats with other guys, it made me furious, and that’s why I killed her.” His admission, marked by a lack of remorse, played a significant role in sealing his fate.
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The horrifying crime came to light when Ajayi was arrested in January carrying a bag near a church. Suspicion grew after bystanders noticed a foul smell and odd behavior. When the bag was searched, the severed head of the victim was discovered inside. Law enforcement officials took him into custody immediately. A subsequent search of his residence led to the discovery of other dismembered parts of Salome Adaidu’s body.
The case has sparked outrage and grief across the country, especially among NYSC members and advocacy groups who have called for stronger protections for young women and stricter penalties for gender-based violence. Many have expressed heartbreak over the tragic and senseless loss of a promising young woman who had dedicated her life to national service.
Timileyin Ajayi, once known in church circles for his gospel music and performances, will now face the ultimate punishment for a crime that has been described as both barbaric and deeply disturbing.