Gospel artist Timilehin Ajayi regarded solemn and prayerful in court on Tuesday as his excessive-profile execute trial resumed at the Nasarawa Reveal Excessive Court docket in Lafia.
The 35-12 months-mature singer is standing trial for the brutal killing of 24-12 months-mature Salome Adaidu, a serving member of the National Formative years Carrier Corps (NYSC).
Ajayi, who was arrested on January 12, is accused of killing Adaidu—his reported lady friend—after she visited him at his situation in the Papalana field of Fresh Karshi, Karu Local Authorities Space. On the time of her loss of life, Adaidu was serving at Nicon Insurance in Abuja.
Authorities mutter that Ajayi was caught trying to eliminate her dismembered body when he was apprehended, sparking national outrage over the disturbing nature of the crime and the contrast along with his public characterize as a gospel musician.
During police interrogation, Ajayi reportedly confessed to the crime, expressing no remorse.
“She was my lady friend. She was continually cheating on me,” he allegedly informed investigators.
His confession handiest deepened public backlash, particularly amongst non secular communities nervous by his twin identity as a faith-based artist and an accused assassin.
Courtroom Scene and Final Submissions
When court resumed on Would possibly fair 20, Ajayi was considered clutching a Bible and praying quietly, a pious characterize that stood in intelligent contrast to the gruesome well-known points of the alleged execute.
The court was below tight security as spectators and media carefully adopted proceedings.
Both factual groups introduced their final written addresses earlier than Justice Simon Aboki, who counseled their diligence and mounted June 26, 2025, as the date for judgment.
Ajayi’s defence counsel, Joseph Tuku Bisson, asked the court to brush aside the prices, arguing that the prosecution did now not sign its case past reasonable doubt.
“We prayed the court to uphold due job and grant relief accordingly,” Bisson informed journalists after the hearing.
Prosecuting counsel, Joseph Kigbu, disagreed, insisting that the proof was ample to stable a conviction.
“We’re contented with how the trial has stepped forward,” he talked about.
The case has stirred trusty reactions across Nigeria, highlighting the growing pains over gender-based violence, particularly involving young ladies in romantic relationships.
It has moreover raised questions about psychological health, the chance of hidden abuse, and the responsibilities of public figures who maintain non secular influence.
As the public awaits the court’s ruling, all eyes will be on the June 26 judgment, which would perchance well perchance moreover situation a well-known factual precedent in a case that has gripped national attention.
