The Nasarawa State High Court has set June 26, 2025, as the date for delivering judgment in the high-profile murder case against Timileyin Ajayi, who stands accused of killing Salome Adaidu, a female National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member.
Justice Simon Aboki announced the judgment date on Monday after both prosecution and defense counsels presented and adopted their final written addresses in court.
The court proceedings experienced a brief adjournment earlier in the day to allow Defense Counsel Joseph Tuku Bisson, who arrived late, to formally enter his appearance before the court.
In his closing arguments, Mr. Bisson urged the court to discharge and acquit his client, contending that the prosecution had failed to establish beyond reasonable doubt that Ajayi was responsible for Adaidu's death.
The prosecution counsel, Joseph Kigbu, countered by asking the court to reject the defense's plea and impose the statutory penalty for the offense, expressing confidence in the evidence presented against the accused.
Justice Aboki, while adjourning the matter to June 26, commended both legal teams for their diligence and commitment to the pursuit of justice throughout the trial.
Following the hearing, Mr. Kigbu expressed confidence in the proceedings, while defense counsel Mr. Tuku maintained that due process had been upheld in the case.
Observers in the courtroom noted that Ajayi, who is reportedly a gospel singer by profession, was seen engaged in quiet prayer after the court session concluded.
The case has attracted significant public attention since Ajayi's arrest and subsequent trial. In previous court appearances, details emerged about the relationship between the accused and the deceased corps member, though the full circumstances of the alleged crime will be addressed in the final judgment.
The June 26 judgment is expected to bring closure to a case that has shocked many Nigerians, particularly those in the NYSC community.