Father of Slain Kogi Photojournalist Dies Weeks After Son’s Brutal Murder

Lokoja, Nigeria — The family of late photojournalist Ayobami Aiyepeku is grieving yet another tragedy following the death of his father, Chief James Aiyepeku, barely three weeks after Ayobami’s murder.

Chief James reportedly died on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, after suffering a stroke believed to have been triggered by the trauma of his son’s killing on July 22, 2025, in Lokoja, Kogi State.

Speaking to our correspondent at the family’s Lokoja residence, Timothy Aiyepeku, elder brother of the late journalist, recounted that his father’s health began to deteriorate shortly after Ayobami’s death.

“On August 6, I had gone to finalize arrangements for the release of Ayobami’s body for burial. When I returned, I was informed my father had been rushed to the hospital after suddenly falling ill,” Timothy said.

Although there were initial signs of recovery, Chief James’ condition worsened, leading to his death six days later.

Timothy alleged a possible conspiracy in Ayobami’s death, citing the mysterious disappearance of his brother’s phone and that of the suspected killer, identified as Jacob Adebayo Oluwapelumi, who was said to have died by suicide.

“The police must ensure a thorough investigation. We believe they have the capacity to uncover the truth if given the right resources,” he urged, lamenting that the family has yet to receive any formal update on the probe.

He further appealed for transparency and justice, noting that his brother’s sudden and violent death had left the family in deep pain.

Kogi State Police Command spokesperson, Williams Ovye-Aya, earlier confirmed that Ayobami was allegedly murdered by his friend Jacob on July 22, 2025, in an office located near the Government House/GRA area of Lokoja.

The tragic double loss has thrown the Aiyepeku family into mourning, with calls for justice growing louder. The family insists that uncovering the full truth behind Ayobami’s death is not only a matter of personal closure but also a step toward ensuring such tragedies are prevented in the future.

By Makinde oyinkansola|August 14, 2025