Gospel Singer Sentenced to Death for Killing NYSC Member in Nasarawa
LAFIA, Nasarawa State — June 27, 2025
In a tragic and widely followed legal case, the High Court sitting in Lafia, Nasarawa State, has sentenced popular gospel singer Oluwatimileyin Ajayi to death by hanging for the gruesome murder of Salome Adaidu, a 24-year-old National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member.
⚖️ Court Ruling and Charges
Delivering judgment, Justice Simon Aboki declared Ajayi guilty of culpable homicide punishable by death, under Section 221 of the Penal Code applicable in Northern Nigeria. The court found that the prosecution presented overwhelming evidence, including a direct confession by Ajayi and forensic links to the crime scene.
🕯️ The Victim: Salome Adaidu
Salome Adaidu, a graduate of Microbiology, was serving in Nasarawa State under the NYSC scheme. Her sudden disappearance and eventual discovery of her dismembered body sparked outrage across the country.
⚠️ Shocking Confession
Ajayi confessed to luring the corps member, killing her, and attempting to cover up the crime. The court emphasized that the nature of the killing showed premeditation and cruelty, warranting the maximum penalty.
📌 Case Summary Table
Below is a full breakdown of the case for reference:
| Victim | Salome Adaidu, 24-year-old NYSC corps member |
| Convict | Oluwatimileyin “Timileyin” Ajayi, Gospel singer |
| Location of Trial | High Court, Lafia, Nasarawa State |
| Presiding Judge | Justice Simon Aboki |
| Date of Judgment | June 26, 2025 |
| Charge | Culpable Homicide under Section 221, Penal Code |
| Verdict | Guilty |
| Sentence | Death by Hanging |