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By correspondent in Makurdi
The quiet town of Gboko was thrown into shock over the weekend following the mysterious death of a 67-year-old French tourist, Mr. Pietier Gilles, who was found lifeless in his hotel room under circumstances now under police investigation.
Gilles, a cycling enthusiast on a trans-African tour, reportedly arrived in Nigeria through the Niger Republic on May 19, 2025.
He was said to have checked into Hotel Jovina in Gboko, the headquarters of Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State, on June 6.
According to credible sources, Mr. Gilles fell ill shortly after his arrival at the hotel.
Despite the visible signs of deterioration, he is said to have declined medical evacuation to a hospital.
Our correspondent further gathered that,concerned for his safety, hotel management reportedly engaged a medical practitioner to examine him privately.
Tragically, he was confirmed dead shortly after.
Sources said the tragic incident was formally reported to the “A” Division Police Station in Gboko at about 5:45 p.m. on Sunday by the hotel manager, Mr. Emmanuel Laha.
In response, the Divisional Police Officer led a patrol team to the scene where preliminary photographs and documentation were carried out.
Police sources confirmed that the remains of the tourist were evacuated to the General Hospital in Gboko for preservation, adding that autopsy investigations has commenced into the circumstances surrounding his death.
“This is a tragic incident involving a foreign national, and we are treating it with all the seriousness it deserves. An autopsy will help determine the actual cause of death,” a police officer who spoke on condition of anonymity stated.
The death of Mr. Gilles has sparked both sorrow and speculation, as locals and fellow travelers mourn the loss of a man described as adventurous, quiet, and respectful.
His death is a grim reminder of the risks faced by solo travelers, and the importance of timely medical intervention in emergencies.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
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