The police in Nasarawa State yesterday arraigned Mr Timileyin Ajayi, the alleged killer of Miss Salome Adaidu, before the State High Court 2 in Lafia.
The police arraigned Mr Ajayi on one count charge of culpable homicide punishable with death before Justice Simeon Aboki.
However, Mr Ajayi pleaded not guilty to the murder charge instituted against him.
The Police prosecutor, Stanley Nwaforagu, told journalists that the defendant was properly arraigned. He added that despite his pleading not guilty to the charge brought against him, the police have overwhelming evidence to sustain the charge.
“Today, the 27th day of January 2025, the defendant, Mr Timileyin Ajayi, was properly arraigned before this honourable court on the one count charge of culpable homicide punishable with death.
“His plea was taken, and he pleaded not guilty to the charge. And a date was set for trial. The case is now adjourned for trial on the 17th to 20th day of March.
“The court is desirous of giving it a speedy, accelerated trial and is a welcome development.
“We have overwhelming evidence to sustain the charge, and we are optimistic that justice will be done,” he explained.
Speaking with newsmen after the arraignment, Barrister Joseph Tukur, counsel to Mr Ajayi, said he had entered his plea in the case and added that he had an obligation to ensure that the law was fulfilled.
“Today was basically for arraignment. And as the law demands, he has entered his plea already, so we have taken a day for hearing,” he said.