Renowned gospel singer, Timileyin Ajayi, has pleaded not guilty to charges of killing Salome Adeoye, a 27-year-old woman whose body was discovered in a Lagos hotel room last week. The highly publicized case has stunned the local community, sparking widespread media coverage and drawing attention to the singer’s personal life.
Ajayi, 33, appeared before the Lagos High Court on Monday morning, where he denied the allegations, which include charges of murder and unlawful possession of a firearm. During the brief hearing, his defense attorney, Adewale Oloyede, argued that the evidence against Ajayi was circumstantial and that the singer had no involvement in Salome’s death.
“This is a case of mistaken identity and misrepresentation,” Oloyede said in his opening statement. “Mr. Ajayi has maintained his innocence throughout this ordeal, and we believe the facts will exonerate him as we proceed.”
The victim, Salome Adeoye, was reportedly found lifeless in a room at the ‘Lagos Paradise Hotel’ last Thursday. Police investigations suggest that the singer and the deceased were seen together at the venue earlier that evening. Surveillance footage shows them entering the hotel, but there is no clear evidence of what transpired inside the room.
Authorities say that a firearm was recovered from Ajayi’s possession when he was apprehended, although it has not yet been conclusively linked to the crime. Further investigations are ongoing.
Fans of the gospel singer have been left in shock by the allegations, as Timileyin Ajayi has built a strong reputation in the Nigerian Christian music community. Known for his uplifting and inspirational songs, Ajayi has also been active in philanthropic work, supporting various causes related to education and youth empowerment.
Despite the charges, several of Ajayi’s close associates, including fellow gospel musicians and church leaders, have publicly expressed their support, asserting that the singer is innocent until proven guilty.
“This is a tragedy, but we must allow the justice system to determine the facts,” said one of Ajayi’s longtime collaborators, Pastor Bola Olamide. “Timileyin is a man of integrity, and we trust that the truth will come to light.”
The case continues to develop, with the court scheduled to hear further testimony next week. Meanwhile, the investigation remains ongoing, and police are appealing to the public for any additional information that may assist in clarifying the circumstances surrounding Salome Adeoye’s death.
source: Legit.ng