Kogi police recover body of slain photojournalist in bush area

The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed the recovery of the lifeless body of Mr. Ayo Aiyepeku, a photojournalist who was reportedly murdered by his neighbour, identified as Oluwapelumi Adebayo.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Williams Aya, disclosed the development to journalists on Monday in Lokoja.

According to Aya, the victim’s body was discovered on Sunday evening near the WAEC office, Crusher Zone 8 axis, in the state capital. Details surrounding the motive for the alleged killing are still under investigation.

SP Aya added that the late journalist was gruesomely murdered by his neighbour, Oluwapelumi Adebayo on Tuesday night, July 22 in an office near the Government House/GRA area of Lokoja.

“Yes, the corpse of the photo-journalist has been found. It was discovered on Sunday evening somewhere around WAEC office, Zone 8 axis of Lokoja.

“The corpse has been deposited at Kogi State Specialist Hospital, Lokoja. The discreet investigation will help us uncover what truly happened.”

However, the state police command’s spokesperson called upon the family of deceased journalist, colleagues and the public to provide credible information that will uncover the mystery behind the incident.

Also, the deceased’s family has appealed to police authorities and the Kogi government for justice.

The deceased’s elder brother, Mr Timothy Aiyepeku, said: “Now that the body has been found, we once again appeal to the Federal and Kogi governments and police authorities to uncover the mystery behind the killing.

“We commend the Police for their effort so far, and the media for ensuring the incident receivesd wide coverage and public attention.

“Ayobami’s body was found by residents of the crusher area who later raised an alarm to that effect.”

The residents were said to have been attracted to a nearby bush as a result of the odour oozing out the corpse.