A 67-year-old French tourist, Mr. Pietier Gilles, was found dead in a hotel room in Gboko, Benue State, after reportedly declining medical assistance despite falling ill.
According to reports, the deceased was discovered on Saturday at Hotel Jovina in Gboko, the headquarters of Gboko Local Government Area, where he had been lodging since June 6.
The hotel manager, Mr. Emmanuel Laha, reported the incident to the "A" Division Police Station around 5:45 pm on Sunday. Laha informed authorities that Gilles had fallen ill on June 7 but refused to be taken to a hospital despite his worsening condition.
Concerned about his deteriorating health, the hotel management arranged for a medical practitioner to examine him, only to discover that he had already passed away.
Police Investigation Underway
Police sources revealed that "On receipt of the information, the Divisional Police Officer led a patrol team to the hotel where photographs of the scene were taken. The body was evacuated to the General Hospital in Gboko for preservation and autopsy."
Gilles reportedly entered Nigeria from the Niger Republic on May 19, 2025, traveling on a sports bicycle as part of what appears to have been a long-distance tour.
Authorities have indicated that an investigation will be conducted into the circumstances surrounding his death, and relevant diplomatic channels are being engaged to handle the situation appropriately.
BenriNews attempted to reach the Spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, for confirmation, but calls to her mobile telephone were not returned at the time of filing this report.
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