The Police in Benue State are probing the death of a 67-year-old French national, Mr. Pietier Gilles found dead at a hotel in Gboko town recently.
In a statement as reported by Zagazola Makama, the deceased, believed to be a French tourist, was discovered lifeless on Saturday at Hotel Jovina, Gboko, where he had checked in on June 6.
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Police sources revealed that on Sunday, June 8, at about 5:45 p.m., the hotel manager, Mr. Emmanuel Terhide Laha, reported the incident to the “A” Division Police Station. Laha stated that the tourist had fallen ill on June 7 but declined to be taken to the hospital. Concerned about his worsening condition, the hotel staff called in a medical practitioner to examine him. However, he was confirmed dead upon examination.
“Upon receiving the report, the Divisional Police Officer led a patrol team to the hotel, where photographs of the scene were taken. The body was then evacuated to the General Hospital in Gboko for preservation and autopsy,” the police said.
Mr. Gilles reportedly entered Nigeria from Niger Republic on May 19, 2025, traveling by sports bicycle as part of what is believed to be a long-distance cycling tour.
Police officials stated that an investigation is underway and that all relevant diplomatic channels are being engaged to handle the matter appropriately.
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