French tourist found dead in Benue hotel room

A 67-year-old French tourist, Mr. Pietier Gilles, has been found dead in a hotel room in Gboko, the headquarters of Gboko Local Government Area in Benue State.

The incident occurred at Hotel Jovina, where the deceased had checked in on June 6. DAILY POST gathered that Gilles was discovered dead on Saturday, June 8, but the matter was officially reported to the “A” Division Police Station by the hotel manager, Mr. Emmanuel Laha, at about 5:45 p.m. on Sunday.

According to Laha, the tourist fell ill on June 7 but declined suggestions to be taken to a hospital. Growing increasingly concerned about his condition, the hotel management reportedly invited a medical practitioner to examine him. Sadly, he was confirmed dead upon examination.

Police sources said, “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.”

Mr. Gilles reportedly entered Nigeria from the Niger Republic on May 19, 2025, as part of a long-distance cycling tour. He was said to have been traveling on a sports bicycle at the time.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident and stated that appropriate diplomatic channels are being engaged to ensure the matter is handled in accordance with international protocol.

As of press time, efforts to reach the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful, as calls to her mobile phone went unanswered.