Nasarawa Court Remands Man Over Alleged Killing of NYSC Member Girlfriend

A Nasarawa State High Court has ordered the remand of Timilehin Ajayi, a man accused of killing his 24-year-old girlfriend, Salome Enejo, a member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Ajayi was arraigned before Justice Simon Aboki on Monday at the High Court of Justice in Lafia, where he pleaded not guilty to the charge of culpable homicide.

The state counsel, Stanley Ifeanyi, informed the court that Ajayi allegedly committed the crime in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), violating Section 221 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria, which prescribes the death penalty for such offences. Enejo’s tragic death has sparked widespread concern, highlighting issues of gender-based violence and the safety of young Nigerians.

Justice Aboki, acknowledging the gravity of the case, ordered Ajayi’s remand at the Lafia Custodial Centre and adjourned the hearing to March 17, 2025. The judge pledged to ensure an accelerated hearing due to the serious and sensitive nature of the matter. “This case will be given the urgency it deserves,” he stated, emphasizing the need for justice to be served promptly.

The case has drawn significant attention, particularly because of Enejo’s status as a young corps member serving her nation. Her untimely death has reignited conversations about the safety of women and the need for stricter measures to address violence against them. Many Nigerians have called for a thorough investigation and a fair trial to ensure that justice is served.

As the legal process unfolds, the court’s decision to prioritize the case reflects the importance of addressing crimes of this nature swiftly and decisively. The adjournment to 2025 allows time for both the prosecution and defense to prepare their cases, while the remand order ensures that the accused remains in custody pending trial.

The tragic loss of Salome Enejo serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to tackle gender-based violence and protect vulnerable individuals in society. As the case progresses, many will be watching closely, hoping for a just outcome that honors Enejo’s memory and sends a strong message against such heinous acts.