The trial of Timileyin Ajayi, the suspected killer of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member Salome Adaidu, commenced on Monday at the High Court 2 in Lafia, Nasarawa State. The prosecuting counsel presented three out of five witnesses as the state government took over the case.
The witnesses, whose statements were admitted as exhibits in court, alleged that the victim’s body was found in Ajayi’s possession. The suspect, who was arraigned in January before Justice Simon Aboki of the High Court of Justice in Lafia, pleaded not guilty to the charge of culpable homicide.
The Nigeria Police Force had earlier arraigned Ajayi on a single count of culpable homicide for allegedly killing Adaidu. The charge is punishable by death under Section 221 of the Penal Code of Northern Nigeria.
During Monday’s court session, the prosecution applied to amend the suspect’s name to Oluwatimileyin Daniels Ajayi instead of the previously recorded Timileyin Ajayi.
Presenting evidence, the prosecuting counsel submitted five statements—marked as exhibits A to E—which the court accepted. The three witnesses detailed the suspect’s alleged involvement in Adaidu’s killing and were subsequently cross-examined by the defense counsel.
Speaking on the proceedings, prosecuting counsel Raymond Umoru expressed confidence in the case, stating, “The witnesses gave vital information as to what transpired. So, we hope that at the end of the day, justice will be done.”
Defense counsel Joseph Tuku-Bisong acknowledged the progress made, saying, “We have just started today, and we thank God for the success recorded. The prosecution was able to call three witnesses, and we played our part by cross-examining them.”
Following the day’s hearings, Justice Simon Aboki adjourned the trial to continue from March 17 to March 20.
