In a chilling confession that has left the nation in shock, 32-year-old gospel singer Timileyin Ajayi has admitted to the gruesome murder and dismemberment of his girlfriend, Salome Eleojo Adaidu, a 24-year-old National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member serving in Abuja.
Salome was killed during a visit to Ajayi’s home in the Papalana area of New Karshi, Karu Local Government Area, Nasarawa State. The suspect, arrested while attempting to dispose of her severed head, confessed to the crime during police interrogation, citing alleged infidelity as his motive.
The Unfolding Horror
Ajayi was apprehended on Sunday, January 12, in what investigators have described as a premeditated and barbaric act. According to the police, he dismembered Salome’s body into multiple parts, storing them in polythene bags, raising suspicions that he was preparing the remains for consumption.
Police spokesperson SP Ramhan Nansel, addressing the media, assured Nigerians that Ajayi would face the full wrath of the law. “The suspect has been remanded in custody at the Criminal Investigation Department in Lafia, and we are working tirelessly to ensure justice is served,” Nansel stated.
A Betrayal of Trust
Salome, who worked at Nicon Insurance in Abuja as part of her national service, had reportedly visited Ajayi on what seemed to be a routine visit. However, the encounter turned fatal after the suspect accused her of being unfaithful.
During a police interview, Ajayi admitted to discovering messages on Salome’s phone that allegedly confirmed his suspicions of infidelity. “I killed her because she was cheating on me,” he stated. “She hid things from me, and when I saw the chats with other men, I decided to act.”
Despite the horrifying nature of his crime, Ajayi remained unrepentant, stating, “I have no regrets. Life is reciprocal. You need to understand what someone is going through to act accordingly.”
Family’s Heartbreak and Plea for Justice
The victim’s family, devastated by the tragic loss, has demanded swift justice. Her elder sister, Esther Adaidu, expressed disbelief and sorrow, revealing that the family was unaware of any relationship between Salome and Ajayi.
“This so-called Timi, we don’t know him,” Esther said tearfully. “We only saw him after he murdered and butchered our sister. I demand justice for Salome. This man must face the consequences of his actions.”
Salome’s uncle, Samson Adaji Adaidu, echoed the family’s grief and outrage. “He destroyed our daughter, cutting her into more than 50 pieces. The sight was horrifying. It was as though he was preparing her remains for something sinister,” he said.
A Double Life?
While Ajayi is publicly known as a gospel singer, he described himself as a cryptocurrency trader in a statement to the police. This revelation has raised questions about his dual identity and the circumstances surrounding the crime.
Ajayi, frail and battered from injuries inflicted by a mob that attacked him before his arrest, was paraded by the police alongside the weapons used in the crime—a machete and a knife.
Police Assurance
SP Ramhan Nansel assured the public that the case would be handled with the utmost professionalism. “We call on anyone with additional complaints or information about the suspect to come forward. Justice will be served,” he emphasized.
The murder has sparked nationwide outrage, with many questioning how someone publicly perceived as a gospel singer could commit such a heinous act.
A Bright Future Cut Short
Salome’s tragic death has not only left her family in mourning but has also highlighted the dangers young women face in relationships. As a promising NYSC member nearing the end of her service year, she had dreams of building a bright future.
Her colleagues at Nicon Insurance described her as diligent and kind, with aspirations to make a difference in her community. “Salome was one of the most hardworking people we knew,” a colleague said. “Her loss is deeply felt, and we hope justice will prevail.”
A Call for Action
The gruesome nature of Salome’s murder has reignited debates on the need for stronger laws to protect women from domestic violence and abusive relationships. Advocacy groups have called on the government to intensify public awareness campaigns and implement stricter measures to curb violence against women.
“This is not just about Salome; it’s about countless other women who suffer in silence,” said a representative of Women Against Violence in Nigeria (WAViN). “We must act now to prevent such tragedies from recurring.”
Next Steps
As investigations continue, the spotlight remains on the police to ensure a thorough and impartial process. Ajayi’s remand at the Nasarawa State Police Command marks the beginning of what promises to be a highly publicized trial.
For Salome’s family, the fight for justice is far from over. They have vowed to follow the case to its conclusion, ensuring that their daughter’s death is not in vain.