Gospel Singer, Ajayi Sentenced to Death by Hanging for Brutal Murder of NYSC Member

By Emmanuel Kwada

The Nasarawa State High Court in Lafia has sentenced gospel singer Oluwatimileyin “Timileyin” Ajayi to death by hanging for the gruesome murder and dismemberment of Salome Adaidu, a 24-year-old National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member.

The verdict, delivered on Thursday by Justice Simon Aboki, marks a significant moment in the fight against gender-based violence and underscores the judiciary’s resolve to deliver justice in high-profile cases.

Late Salome Adaidu x Ajayi

The chilling case began on January 12, 2025, when Ajayi, a locally known gospel singer and social media content creator, was apprehended in Agwan Sarki, Orozo, near the border of Nasarawa State and the Federal Capital Territory.

Police arrested him while he was allegedly attempting to dispose of Adaidu’s severed head in a polythene bag near a church, a discovery that horrified the community. A subsequent search of Ajayi’s residence in Papalana, New Karshi, uncovered the remaining parts of Adaidu’s dismembered body, which had been chopped into small pieces. The victim, identified as Eliojo Salomey, was a serving corps member at Nicon Insurance in Abuja.

Justice Aboki, presiding over the case, convicted Ajayi on a single count of culpable homicide under Section 221 of the Penal Code of Northern Nigeria, which carries a mandatory death penalty.

The prosecution has established its case beyond a reasonable doubt. He is hereby sentenced to be hanged by the neck until dead

The prosecution, backed by forensic evidence, phone records, and eyewitness testimonies, proved beyond reasonable doubt that Ajayi was responsible for the brutal killing. “The convict acted deliberately and without any sense of humanity,” Justice Aboki stated in his ruling.

“This court is convinced that the prosecution has established its case beyond a reasonable doubt. He is hereby sentenced to be hanged by the neck until dead.”

Ajayi, who had cultivated a public image as a devout Christian and fitness enthusiast, shocked the nation with his actions. During police interrogation, he reportedly confessed to the crime, claiming he killed Adaidu in a fit of rage after discovering she was cheating on him.

VIDEO: Moment court sentences Oluwatimileyin Ajayi to death for murder of NYSC member

The High Court in Lafia, Nasarawa State, has sentenced Oluwatimileyin Ajayi to death by hanging for the murder of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member Salome Adaidu.

Justice Simon Aboki,… pic.twitter.com/sbMGcfr60H

— The Nation Nigeria (@TheNationNews) June 26, 2025

“I didn’t plan to kill her. She hides most things from me… I got angry seeing her chats with other guys,” Ajayi told authorities. However, Adaidu’s family disputed his claim of a romantic relationship, asserting that Salome never dated the singer and may have been abducted before her death. These conflicting narratives fueled public outrage and raised questions about Ajayi’s motives.

Throughout the trial, which began in January 2025, Ajayi maintained a not guilty plea despite overwhelming evidence. His courtroom demeanor, including moments where he was seen clutching a Bible and praying, drew criticism for appearing performative.

The case, which garnered widespread attention on social media and in national media, sparked renewed discussions about the safety of female NYSC members and the alarming prevalence of gender-based violence in Nigeria.

The murder of Salome Adaidu, whose life was tragically cut short while serving her country, has left an indelible mark on her family and community. Her mother, already grieving the loss of her husband seven months prior, described the ordeal as “one of her scariest nightmares.”

The case has also drawn parallels to other high-profile incidents, such as the death of gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu, whose husband was sentenced to death in April 2025 for culpable homicide linked to domestic violence. These cases have intensified calls for stronger protections for women and stricter enforcement of laws against violent crimes.

Many convicts remain on death row for years

While the death sentence has been hailed as a victory for justice, questions remain about its implementation, as Nigeria rarely carries out executions. Ajayi has the right to appeal the ruling, which could prolong the legal process.

The gubernatorial approval is required for executions, and many convicts remain on death row for years. Regardless, the verdict sends a powerful message about accountability, particularly for those who hide behind public personas to commit heinous acts.

Read Also: Kidnapping Epidemic: NYSC Corps Members Bearing the Brunt