Father of Slain Photojournalist Dies Weeks After Son’s Murder

Chief James Aiyepeku, father of 26-year-old photojournalist Ayobami Aiyepeku, tragically passed away on August 12, just weeks after his son was brutally killed in Lokoja, Kogi State. The loss compounds a family’s grief and highlights the profound human cost of violence against journalists.

Ayobami was allegedly lured and murdered by a serving officer of Nigeria’s Correctional Service, Adebayo Pelumi, on July 24. The suspect reportedly fled with Ayobami’s body but was later found dead in a hotel, apparently by suicide. Ayobami’s remains were retrieved from the outskirts of the city and laid to rest amid widespread sorrow and demands for justice.

Chief James, who had been the family’s primary provider, collapsed on Wednesday, August 6, shortly after arranging Ayobami’s funeral. Despite initial signs of recovery, his health deteriorated, and he succumbed to a stroke on August 12. The collapse followed days of emotional distress and sleepless nights in the wake of his son’s tragic death. His elder son, Timothy Aiyepeku, described the death as “tragedy upon tragedy,” emphasising that James had been deeply affected by the unresolved circumstances surrounding Ayobami’s murder.

The family has renewed its plea for a thorough investigation. Timothy urged law enforcement to spare no effort in uncovering the truth behind Ayobami’s killing. “The police should leave no stone unturned,” he said, expressing hope that justice would eventually prevail.

This dual tragedy, losing both a young journalist and his grieving father in such swift succession, has deeply impacted the community in Lokoja and beyond. Civil society groups, fellow journalists, and rights activists continue to pressure authorities to act decisively, not only to bring perpetrators to account but also to protect others in the profession. The Aiyepeku family’s sorrow stands as a poignant reminder of the vulnerability of journalists and the rippling effect of violence on loved ones left behind.

References –

https://www.arise.tv/father-of-kogi-photojournalist-allegedly-killed-by-correctional-officer-dies-in-lokoja/

https://punchng.com/kogi-photojournalists-father-dies-weeks-after-sons-murder/