Timileyin Ajayi, the prime suspect in the murder of National Youth Service Corps member Salome Adaidu, has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.
Timileyin Ajayi was arraigned on Monday, January 27, 2025, before Justice Simeon Aboki at Court 2 in Lafia, Nasarawa State, on a one-count charge of culpable homicide punishable by death.
The Nasarawa State Police Command arrested Timileyin Ajayi on January 12, following investigations into the tragic death of Salome Adaidu at his residence.
The Officer-in-Charge, Legal, Stanley Nwaforagu, expressed the police’s commitment to ensuring justice is served, stating, “We have overwhelming evidence to sustain the charge and are optimistic that justice will be done.
The court has set March 17 to 20, 2025, for the trial, emphasizing its intention to deliver an accelerated hearing.
On the defense side, Ajayi’s counsel, Joseph Tukur, noted that his role is to ensure that the prosecution fulfills its legal obligation of proving the case beyond reasonable doubt. “My work is to defend my client and ensure that due process is followed,” Tukur stated.
The case has drawn attention from various quarters, including calls for justice from civil society and government officials. The Minister of Women Affairs recently demanded accountability in the matter, urging the judicial process to deliver a fair outcome.
Salome Adaidu’s death has left many in mourning, with continued calls for justice echoing across the nation. As the trial date approaches, public interest in the case remains high.
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