Gospel singer sentenced to death by hanging for murder of corps member Salome Adaidu

After months of courtroom drama and public outrage, a High Court in Lafia, Nasarawa State has sentenced gospel singer Oluwatimileyin Ajayi, popularly known as Timileyin Daniels, to death by hanging for the brutal murder of 24-year-old NYSC corps member, Salome Eleojo Adaidu.

The verdict was delivered by Justice Simon Aboki, who ruled that the evidence presented during the trial left no doubt that Ajayi intentionally and violently ended Salome’s life in a crime that shocked the nation.

Ajayi, who was arrested in January 2025 after being found with Salome’s severed head wrapped in a polythene bag, reportedly committed the act out of jealousy. According to investigators, he attacked and dismembered the young woman after accusing her of infidelity.

Although the gospel singer later pleaded not guilty in court, a prior confession and overwhelming witness accounts sealed his fate. During sentencing, Justice Aboki stated:

“The accused committed a deliberate and horrifying act. The court finds him guilty as charged and hereby sentences him to death by hanging.”