The trial of Oluwatimileyin Daniels Ajayi, the man accused of killing National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member Salome Adaidu, has begun at the High Court 2 in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
According to a recent report, the prosecution presented three out of five witnesses in court on Monday to testify against the suspect. These witnesses allegedly submitted their statements as exhibits, claiming that the victim’s body was found in Ajayi’s possession.
Ajayi was first arraigned in January before Justice Simon Aboki of the High Court of Justice in Lafia, where he pleaded not guilty to the charge of culpable homicide. The Nigeria Police Force had initially filed the case against him, accusing him of killing Adaidu. The charge falls under Section 221 of the Penal Code of Northern Nigeria, which carries a death sentence if proven.
The Nasarawa State Government has since taken over the prosecution. During Monday’s court session, the prosecution applied to amend the suspect’s name to Oluwatimileyin Daniels Ajayi, correcting the earlier record, which had identified him as Timileyin Ajayi.
Three witnesses took the stand, detailing the suspect’s alleged involvement in Adaidu’s death. Their statements were admitted as exhibits labeled A to E. After their testimony, the defense counsel cross-examined the witnesses.
Speaking after the court proceedings, prosecuting counsel Raymond Umoru noted, “The witnesses gave vital information as to what transpired. So, we hope that at the end of the day, justice will be done.”
On the other hand, the defendant’s lawyer, Joseph Tuku-Bisong, noted, “We have just started today and we thank God for the success recorded today. The prosecution was able to call three witnesses, and we played our part by cross-examining the witnesses.”
After reviewing the submissions, Justice Aboki adjourned the case. The trial will continue from March 17 to March 20.
