Mrs. Ojomachenwu Adaidu, the mother of 24-year-old corps member Salome Eleojo Adaidu, who was tragically murdered by Abuja-based gospel singer Timileyin Ajayi, speaks to TEMITOPE ADETUNJI about her daughter’s aspirations and the heartbreak of losing her. She calls for justice to prevail in the case.
Could you introduce yourself?
I am Mrs. Ojomachenwu Adaidu, the mother of the late Salome Eleojo Adaidu.
Where are you from?
I am from Ogodu in Omala Local Government Area, Kogi State.
How old are you?
I am 52 years old.
What do you do for a living?
I run a small business.
Which institution did Salome attend before her service year?
She graduated from Kogi State University.
How would you describe Salome’s personality?
Salome was an exceptional child—hardworking, responsible, and caring. Every morning, she would clean and organize the house before I even woke up. Among all my children, she stood out as the most diligent.
Did Salome ever share her future plans with you?
Yes, she wanted to become a doctor after completing her youth service.
How did you feel when you heard the news of her death?
It was as though my entire world had collapsed. The pain is unbearable, and it still feels like a nightmare. People have tried to console me, saying I still have other children, but no parent should experience this. I am deeply hurt and ill. All I want now is justice for my daughter.
The suspect claimed Salome was his girlfriend. Is this true?
That is completely false. Salome was not his girlfriend. He didn’t even know her name. In the video, you can see the suspect with a beard. My children don’t like men who keep beards. Salome was already in a relationship with someone else, a pharmacist. In fact, I had promised her that we would arrange the wedding introduction after her service year.
What do you expect the police to do?
I want the police to thoroughly investigate and ensure the suspect confesses to his crime. Justice must be served. The way he dismembered my daughter is how I want him to be punished. He should face the same fate.
How many children do you have?
I now have five children—four girls and one boy. I used to have six, but I lost Salome.
What other qualities did Salome possess?
She was incredibly kindhearted. Every time she received her monthly allowance, she would buy me medicine, food, and provisions. She was very generous. Since her father’s death, she had been my pillar, promising to always support and care for me.
When did Salome’s father pass away?
He died on May 16, 2024. Losing both my husband and my daughter—two people so dear to me—has been devastating.
