Timileyin Ajayi Pleads Not Guilty to Murder of Salome Adaidu

Timileyin Ajayi, accused of murdering Salome Adaidu, has pleaded not guilty to the charge brought against him by the Police.

Ajayi was arraigned on a single count of culpable homicide, an offense punishable by death, at the Court 2 in Lafia before Justice Simeon Aboki on Monday.

Stanley Nwaforagu, the Officer-in-Charge of Legal for the Nasarawa State Police Command, confirmed to journalists after the court session that the Police remain committed to ensuring justice prevails despite the defendant’s plea.

“On January 27, 2025, the defendant, Mr. Timileyin Ajayi, was formally arraigned on one count of culpable homicide punishable by death. He pleaded not guilty, and the court has adjourned the case to March 17–20 for trial. The court has shown a commitment to expedite the process, which is a positive development. We are confident that the overwhelming evidence we have will sustain the charge and deliver justice,” Nwaforagu stated.

Joseph Tukur, counsel to the defendant, expressed his determination to see the legal process through on behalf of his client.

“Today’s session was solely for arraignment, and the defendant has entered his plea. A trial date has been set. It’s our duty to ensure the prosecution follows due process by proving their case beyond a reasonable doubt,” Tukur said.

The court aims to deliver a speedy trial in the high-profile case, as both parties prepare for the next legal proceedings.