Body of Murdered Photojournalist Found in Lokoja Bush

The Kogi State Police Command has recovered the decomposing body of Ayo Aiyepeku, a photojournalist allegedly murdered by a Nigeria Correctional Service officer, Oluwapelumi Adebayo.

The Command’s spokesperson, William Aya, told reporters that Aiyepeku’s remains were discovered on Sunday evening in a bush near the JAMB office in Zone 8, Lokoja. He said concerned residents had raised an alarm over a foul odour in the area, leading to the discovery. The body has been deposited at the Kogi State Specialist Hospital in Lokoja.

Aya added that the police have launched a discreet investigation to determine the full circumstances of the killing. He also called on the public, the media, and the victim’s family to assist investigators with credible information.

Meanwhile, the Kogi State Government has promised that justice will be served.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, Governor Usman Ododo directed security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into Aiyepeku’s murder. “The government will leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of justice,” the statement said, adding that those responsible would not escape punishment.

Authorities confirmed that investigations also include the mysterious death of the prime suspect, Oluwapelumi Adebayo.

The family of the deceased has appealed for justice. Timothy Aiyepeku, the victim’s elder brother, and his uncle, Ibikunle Jide, urged police and the Kogi State Government to expose the truth behind Ayobami’s murder and bring those responsible to book.

It will be recalled that Aiyepeku was killed last Tuesday night in an office close to the Kogi Government House. Police said after killing him, the suspect hid his body in a freezer before dumping it in a bush in Zone 8, where it was eventually discovered.