In a landmark ruling, the High Court in Lafia, Nasarawa State, sentenced Oluwatimileyin Daniel Ajayi, a 32-year-old self-proclaimed gospel singer and crypto trader, to death by hanging for the brutal murder and dismemberment of 24-year-old National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member Salome Adaidu.

Justice Simon Aboki delivered the verdict on June 26, 2025, following a high-profile trial that began in January 2025, after finding Ajayi guilty of culpable homicide under Section 221 of the Penal Code of Northern Nigeria, a crime punishable by death.

The case, which shocked the nation, stemmed from events on January 12, 2025, when Ajayi was apprehended by churchgoers in Orozo, near Abuja, allegedly attempting to dispose of Adaidu’s severed head in a polythene bag. Police later discovered her dismembered remains at Ajayi’s residence in the Papalana axis of New Karshi, Karu Local Government Area.

Adaidu, who was serving her mandatory NYSC term in Abuja, had reportedly visited Ajayi, her alleged boyfriend, when the gruesome act occurred. During interrogation, Ajayi expressed no remorse, claiming Adaidu had been unfaithful.

The trial was led by a robust prosecution, headed by Nasarawa State’s Attorney-General, Hauwa Samuel-Jugbo, who took over the case from the police.

Three key witnesses, including the Divisional Police Officer of Karshi and Adaidu’s uncle, Samson Adaidu, testified, with the latter identifying her severed head.

Seven additional exhibits were admitted as evidence. Despite defense counsel Joseph Bisong’s plea for acquittal, citing insufficient forensic evidence, Justice Aboki upheld the prosecution’s case, delivering justice for Adaidu’s tragic death.