Timileyin Ajayi, accused of murdering Salome Adaidu, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him. Salome died at his residence several weeks ago.
The Nasarawa State Police Command arrested Ajayi on January 12 and charged him with culpable homicide, an offense that carries the death penalty.
During his arraignment before Justice Simeon Aboki at Court 2 in Lafia on Monday, Ajayi denied the charges.
Stanley Nwaforagu, the Officer-in-Charge of Legal Affairs for the Nasarawa State Police Command, addressed the media after the court session, reiterating the police’s commitment to pursuing justice.
“On January 27, 2025, the defendant, Mr. Timileyin Ajayi, was officially arraigned before this honorable court on one count of culpable homicide punishable by death. He entered a plea of not guilty, and the trial has been scheduled for March 17 to 20,” Nwaforagu stated.
He praised the court’s decision to prioritize a swift trial, adding, “We have compelling evidence to support the charge, and we are confident that justice will be served.”
Joseph Tukur, Ajayi’s defense counsel, assured his client of a diligent defense throughout the legal process.
“Today’s proceedings focused on the arraignment, during which my client entered his plea. The court has now set dates for the trial,” Tukur explained.
In response to questions about his approach to earlier statements made by Ajayi, Tukur clarified, “It is not my role to prove the case. My responsibility is to ensure my client is properly defended and that the prosecution fulfills its duty to prove the charges beyond reasonable doubt. I am here to ensure the law is upheld.”
