Kogi journalist murder suicide case deepens as police find suspect Pelumi dead in hotel room. Family seeks justice, urges swift recovery of journalist’s body
The Kogi journalist murder suicide case has taken a tragic turn, as police confirm that Jacob Adebayo Pelumi, the suspect in the killing of photo-journalist Ayo Aiyepeku, has allegedly taken his own life.
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According to police spokesperson Williams Ovye-Aya, Pelumi’s body was discovered early Thursday in a hotel room in Lokoja, just hours after a manhunt had been launched.
A bottle of Sniper insecticide and a suicide note were found beside the bed. Police believe the contents of the note may shed light on the murder.
Pelumi’s remains have been deposited at the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Lokoja, for autopsy.
Authorities have also impounded a Hilux vehicle allegedly used by the suspect, along with a deep freezer found in the vehicle. Both are now in police custody.
Aiyepeku was killed on Tuesday night in an office near Lokoja’s Government House area. His murder sparked outrage across the journalism community and prompted swift action from the police.
Commissioner of Police Miller Dantawaye has ordered the transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a more discreet and thorough investigation.
“We urge the public and media professionals to provide any information that could aid the investigation,” Ovye-Aya stated.
The victim’s family is now pleading for justice. Chief James Aiyepeku, the father of the deceased, said: “My son was gentle and hardworking. He had no quarrels at work. We just want justice.”
His elder brother, Timothy Aiyepeku, and uncle, Dr. Ibikunle Jide, also called on the Kogi State Government and police to ensure those responsible are brought to book.
“We commend the police for acting quickly, but the body of our brother must be found and properly buried,” Dr. Jide said.
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He added that the government must act urgently to support the family and uphold justice in the Kogi journalist murder suicide case, which has shocked both the media and the public.
