A correctional officer declared wanted in connection with the murder of photojournalist Ayo Aiyepekun, Adebayo Pelumi, has reportedly taken his own life in a hotel in Lokoja, Kogi State.
Pelumi, who served with the Nigeria Correctional Service, checked into the hotel yesterday however is body was discovered around 1:00 p.m. today by a staff member during routine room cleaning at checkout time.
Hotel management immediately notified the police, who confirmed Pelumi’s identity as the main suspect in the killing of Aiyepekun.
His body has been moved to the morgue at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja.
Aiyepekun, a photojournalist with InsideStory online media, was reportedly killed last Tuesday within the compound where both he and Pelumi lived.
According to a colleague and eyewitness, Aiyepekun was called out around 8:30 p.m. by Pelumi under the pretense of assisting with his poultry farm. Upon stepping out, Aiyepekun was allegedly struck repeatedly with an iron rod by the suspect.
NAIJAONPOINT said he saw Pelumi lift the victim’s body into a deep freezer and later transfer it into a Hilux van, prompting him to raise an alarm.
Local vigilantes pursued the suspect after shooting at his vehicle’s tires, causing him to crash and flee on foot.
Confirming the latest development, the Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, William Aya, stated: “Yes, it is confirmed. The suspect has committed suicide.”