Gospel singer Timileyin Ajayi has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Salome Adaidu, a charge brought against him by the Nasarawa State Police Command. Ajayi, who faces one count of culpable homicide punishable by death, was arraigned on Monday before Justice Simeon Aboki at Court 2 in Lafia.
The Police allege that Ajayi is responsible for Adaidu’s death, but during the court session, the 27-year-old defendant maintained his innocence. His trial is scheduled to begin on March 17, 2025, and will continue through March 20.
Stanley Nwaforagu, the Officer-in-Charge of Legal for the Nasarawa State Police Command, expressed confidence in the prosecution’s case after the court proceedings. He reassured the public that the Police remain committed to ensuring justice is served.
“Today, the 27th day of January 2025, the defendant, Mr. Timileyin Ajayi, was properly arraigned before this honourable court on the one-count charge of culpable homicide punishable with death,” Nwaforagu said.
“His plea was taken, and he pleaded not guilty to the charge. The court has set the 17th to 20th of March for the trial, ensuring a speedy, accelerated process. We have overwhelming evidence to sustain the charge, and we are optimistic that justice will be done,” he added.
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Speaking on behalf of the defendant, counsel Joseph Tukur pledged to diligently represent Ajayi throughout the legal process, emphasizing that his role is to ensure a fair trial.
“Today was basically for arraignment. As the law demands, he has entered his plea, and we have taken a day for hearing,” Tukur explained.
The defence lawyer also highlighted the importance of holding the prosecution accountable for proving their case. “It is not out of place to defend an alleged murder case, but the prosecution must do their work legally, which is to prove the case beyond reasonable doubt,” he said.
Justice Simeon Aboki has promised to prioritize the case by giving it a speedy trial. This move has been welcomed by both the prosecution and the defence. The high-profile case has drawn public interest, with many awaiting the trial to uncover more details about the circumstances surrounding Adaidu’s death.