By A dimly lit Nigerian courtroom with silhouetted figures. A lone defendant stands before a judge’s bench, spotlighted under harsh light. A broken microphone lies on the floor next to him, and faint symbols of justice (like scales and a gavel) loom in the background. Subtle musical notes fade into shadow behind the figure—hinting at his former identity as a gospel singer.
Crime and Confession
The High Court in Lafia, Nasarawa State, has sentenced Nigerian gospel musician Oluwatimileyin Ajayi to death by hanging for the murder of 24-year-old NYSC member Salome Adaidu. The ruling, delivered by Justice Simon Aboki, concluded a high-profile case that gripped the nation with its shocking details and tragic outcome.
Ajayi was arrested in early January 2025 after he was reportedly found with the severed head of the victim. During both police interrogation and a televised confession, Ajayi admitted to the crime and expressed no remorse, citing jealousy and emotional instability as his motives.
Legal Grounds for the Sentence
Justice Aboki found Ajayi guilty under Section 221 of the Penal Code of Northern Nigeria, which prescribes the mandatory death penalty for culpable homicide. The court emphasized that the evidence presented—including Ajayi’s own confession and forensic findings—left no reasonable doubt about his intent.
Victim’s Background
The victim, Salome Adaidu, was serving her mandatory National Youth Service Corps year when the incident occurred. She was described by family and friends as kind, driven, and deeply committed to both her education and community work.
Public Reaction
The case sparked national outrage, particularly because Ajayi was seen as a figure of moral authority due to his role as a gospel artist. Many Nigerians took to social media to demand justice and call for stronger protections for women, especially those assigned to serve in remote or vulnerable regions through the NYSC program.
Renewed Focus on Gender-Based Violence
Adaidu’s murder has once again thrown a spotlight on gender-based violence in Nigeria. Advocacy groups are using the case to press for reforms and better safety protocols for corps members, especially female participants posted to isolated locations.
The Role of the NYSC
Critics have questioned the NYSC’s placement policies, arguing that remote assignments without adequate safety measures place young people at risk. The NYSC has not yet issued a formal statement about the case but is under pressure to re-evaluate its deployment strategy.
A Fallen Public Figure
Ajayi’s conviction has also stirred conversation within Nigeria’s religious and music communities. Some of his past fans have expressed disbelief and sorrow, while religious leaders have called for reflection on how public figures are held accountable.
Appeals and Legal Options
Ajayi’s legal team has not yet confirmed whether they intend to file an appeal. However, under Nigerian law, death penalty convictions can be challenged at the appellate level, though reversals are rare in cases with such overwhelming evidence.
Final Words from the Bench
In his concluding statement, Justice Aboki said, “This court must send a clear message that such heinous acts will not be tolerated under our laws. The sentence is death by hanging.”
