Kogi Govt Vows Justice for Murdered Photojournalist Ayo Aiyepeku

The Kogi State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to uncovering the truth and securing justice for the slain photojournalist, Mr. Ayo Aiyepeku.

In a statement released in Lokoja, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, disclosed that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has ordered a comprehensive investigation by security agencies to unravel the circumstances surrounding Ayo’s tragic death.

Governor Ododo emphasized that while justice cannot bring Ayo back, it can offer some solace to his grieving family and help prevent future tragedies. He assured the public that his administration will not relent in its efforts to ensure that those responsible for the heinous act are held accountable and punished in accordance with the law.

The statement also noted that investigations are still ongoing into both the murder of the 26-year-old and the mysterious death of the prime suspect, a correctional service officer identified as Adebayo Pelumi. Pelumi allegedly lured Ayo—an indigene of Ekinrin Adde in Ijumu Local Government Area—before killing him and fleeing with his body.

Following several days of intense search, Ayo’s decomposing body was discovered on the outskirts of Lokoja. A manhunt was initially launched to track down both the suspect and the victim, but the suspect was later found dead in a hotel in Lokoja, with preliminary findings indicating he may have taken his own life.

Governor Ododo urged the public to remain vigilant and assist the investigation by providing credible information to security agencies. The recovered body of the victim has since been deposited at the Specialist Hospital in Lokoja as investigations continue.