It shouldn’t be the case that when one partner has been found culpable of cheating on the other in a relationship, the reaction from the heartbroken participant turns out to be life-ending violence. Still, sadly that was the fate of a now-deceased Miss Salome Eleojo Adaidu, 24, reportedly murdered by her jealous boyfriend Timileyin Ajayi suspected of beheading her.

Before her death came to light this past weekend, the late Adaidu was a member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) with her place of primary assignment reported to be at Nicon Insurance in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.

Her murderer according to several media outlets is a gospel singer in his early thirties. Ajayi in a Channels Television interview being widely circulated killed the Kogi State University graduate of Library and Information Science in a bathroom at his New Karshi in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State residence using a knife. This was after she admitted to the suspect about having other boyfriends although she was sorry.

The incident is yet another instance of high-handedness as far as reactions to unfaithfulness in relationships is concerned, so what are the better reactions when your partner cheats on you?

Violence is never the answer – that is a fact, and finding healthier ways to cope with the pain of betrayal is crucial. Here are some steps to consider after this line if you find yourself in such a situation.

1. Take a step back: Give yourself time and space to process your emotions before making any decisions or taking any actions.

2. Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist who can provide a listening ear and help you navigate your feelings.

3. Communicate: If you feel ready, have an open and honest conversation with your partner about what happened and how it has affected you.

4. Set boundaries: Decide what you need to feel safe and respected in the relationship moving forward, whether that means taking a break, setting new rules, or ending the relationship.

5. Focus on self-care: Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you heal, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones.

Remember, your well-being is the most important thing. It’s okay to prioritise yourself and seek the support you need to heal. Therapy provides more detailed guidance on handling a cheating partner, and by this, it doesn’t mean a service that one needs to pay for.

Around you, there are other individuals – could be one’s age group or expectedly older persons – who have gone through the same pain you are nursing, so why not seek them?

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Ayodele Johnson

Ayodelé is a Lagos-based journalist and the Content and Editorial Coordinator at Meiza. All around the megacity, I am steering diverse lifestyle magazine audiences with ingenious hacks and insights that spur fast, informed decisions in their busy lives.