NIGERIANS on social media are expressing grief and outrage over the shocking murder of Salome Adaidu, a 24-year-old member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), allegedly beheaded by Timileyin Ajayi, a gospel singer, in Nasarawa state.
Ajayi was arrested on Sunday near a church after being accosted by onlookers who found him carrying a bag containing a severed human head. Police later confirmed that the dismembered body parts of the deceased were discovered in Ajayi’s home.
According to Nasarawa police spokesman Ramhan Nansel, the suspect was rescued from a mob before being taken into custody. ‘The suspect was found with a fresh human head,’ Nansel stated. Investigations are ongoing, but Ajayi has yet to comment on the allegations.
Family and friends demand justice
Adaidu’s family has called on the Nigerian government to ensure a thorough investigation and bring those responsible for her death to justice. Her sister, Patience Adaidu, criticised the police for a lack of transparency and called for public support.
‘Police have not given us any information about my sister. They have not answered our questions. We demand justice and need help from Nigerians,’ Patience said in an interview with News Central.
Abby Simon, a close friend of Salome, described the immense pain the family is enduring. She revealed that Salome’s mother, already grieving the loss of her husband seven months ago, fainted upon learning of her daughter’s death.
Simon also denied claims that Salome was in a relationship with the suspect. ‘Nobody deserves to die this way. Even if she was his girlfriend, she didn’t deserve this,’ she added.
Public reaction and outcry
The gruesome nature of the crime has sparked widespread condemnation online. Social media users have expressed their support for the Adaidu family while demanding swift justice.
‘RIP Salome Adaidu. Your killer will never have rest even after death,’ wrote Avni James on X (formerly Twitter).
Another user, Amara Josephine, shared: ‘That gruesome image of that young lady saddens my heart. I pray for her family.’
A nation awaits answers
The tragedy has reignited calls for stronger measures against violent crimes and better protection for women in Nigeria. As investigations continue, the Adaidu family and the Nigerian public await justice for Salome.
This heartbreaking case serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action to address gender-based violence and provide support for victims and their families.
