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The peaceful city of Lokoja was thrown into fear and sadness after a young and talented photographer, Aiyepeku Ayo, was reportedly murdered and butchered by his friend and colleague, Adebayo Pelumi.
The incident, which happened late last night, took place in their shared office located close to the Kogi Chieftaincy Lodge, not far from the Government House in Lokoja, Kogi State.
According to reports gathered, both men were said to be working on photo editing projects when tragedy struck. Adebayo, believed to be a staff member of the Nigerian Correctional Service, allegedly lured Ayo outside the office under the cover of night.
Once outside, Adebayo reportedly hit Ayo on the head with a heavy object, leading to his instant death. The situation took an even more gruesome turn as Adebayo was said to have butchered Ayo’s body and attempted to hide the remains inside a fridge placed behind his Hilux vehicle.
An eyewitness who stumbled upon the disturbing scene was so terrified he could not shout for help but quickly alerted the police. Officers who responded to the distress call gave Adebayo a hot chase, but he managed to escape, abandoning his blood-stained Hilux vehicle behind.
The suspect, Adebayo Pelumi, is said to have a troubling history. Sources revealed that he is married, but his wife had reportedly fled to Abuja recently after he allegedly attempted to kill her as well. This chilling detail is now being linked to his current violent behaviour.
At the time of filing this report, Adebayo is still on the run, and security agencies are actively searching for him.
Many residents in Lokoja have taken to social media to express shock and anger. Ayo was well known among young creatives in the city, and his untimely death has left a hole in the hearts of many who admired his talent, gentle nature, and passion for photography.
A source close to the victim said, “Ayo was one of the most hardworking people I know. He was peaceful, focused, and just wanted to make a name for himself through photography. He did not deserve to die this way.”
The Kogi State Police Command is yet to release an official statement, but investigations are ongoing. Ayo’s family and friends are calling on the authorities to ensure that the suspect is found and justice is served swiftly.
This tragic event is a painful reminder that evil can sometimes come from the people we trust the most. Ayo’s death is not just a loss to his family but to the entire creative industry in Lokoja.
As the manhunt for Adebayo continues, the people of Lokoja remain in mourning — hoping for answers, healing, and justice.