A 32-year-old man, Timileyin Ajayi, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of his girlfriend, Salome Adaidu.
Ajayi was arraigned on Monday before the High Court of Justice in Lafia, Nasarawa State, on a one-count charge of culpable homicide punishable by death. The charge is in violation of Section 221 of the Penal Code of Northern Nigeria.
During his arraignment before Justice Simon Aboki, Ajayi denied the accusation.
Ajayi is accused of murdering 24-year-old Salome Adaidu, a member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) serving with Nicon Insurance in Abuja. Adaidu was reportedly killed during a visit to Ajayi’s residence in the Papalana area of New Karshi, Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
Authorities allege that Ajayi dismembered Adaidu’s body and was apprehended on Sunday, January 12, while attempting to dispose of her remains.
Despite pleading not guilty in court, Ajayi admitted in a statement to Channels Television that he had killed Adaidu. He claimed the murder was not premeditated but occurred due to frustration over their lack of quality time together.
“I didn’t plan to kill her, but I did it because we don’t have time for each other,” he reportedly said.
The case has drawn significant attention due to the gruesome nature of the crime and Ajayi’s alleged lack of remorse. If found guilty, Ajayi could face the death penalty, as stipulated under Section 221 of the Penal Code.
The murder of Adaidu, a young corps member, has sparked outrage among the public and NYSC community. Many have called for a thorough investigation and swift justice to be served.
The case is expected to continue as the prosecution seeks to present evidence and witnesses in the coming proceedings.
