Benue In Crisis: Fresh Herdsmen Attacks Leave Many Dead, French Tourist Found Dead In HotelBenue State, Nigeria — June 9, 2025: A wave of violence and tragedy swept through Benue State this week, with suspected herdsmen launching fatal attacks in two local government areas, and the mysterious death of a French tourist adding a somber tone to an already grim situation.
Renewed Attacks in Agatu and Apa LGAs
Residents of Agatu and Apa Local Government Areas were plunged into mourning following fresh assaults by suspected armed herdsmen on Tuesday evening. The attacks, which targeted rural communities, left several people dead and others in distress, despite recent promises of increased military presence in the region.
In Agatu LGA, a man identified as Sunday Dutse, a resident of Odejo and younger brother to a former local government chairman, was ambushed and killed along the Odugbeho-Ogbaulu road. Dutse had previously fled his hometown due to earlier attacks and was reportedly seeking refuge in the nearby community of Ogwule-Kaduna when he met his tragic end.
On the same day, another violent episode unfolded in EdikwG’Icho, a small settlement in Apa LGA. Three young men were said to have been ambushed and killed. According to eyewitnesses, two of the victims were natives of EdikwG’Icho, while the third hailed from the neighboring town of Ugbokpo.
These attacks came as a shock to many, particularly given the recent visit by top military officials, including Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), who had assured local leaders of a renewed security strategy aimed at curbing violence in Benue’s troubled regions. Locals are now questioning the effectiveness and timeliness of such interventions.
Community leaders have called for immediate government action to prevent further bloodshed, citing the longstanding pattern of attacks that continue to claim innocent lives and displace thousands.
“How many more lives must we lose before the government acts decisively?” a community elder from Agatu lamented.
Tragedy in Gboko: French Tourist Found Dead in Hotel
In a separate but equally disturbing incident, authorities confirmed the sudden death of a 67-year-old French national, Mr. Pietier Gilles, who was discovered lifeless in his hotel room at Hotel Jovina in Gboko over the weekend.
According to reports, Mr. Gilles had checked into the hotel on June 6 as part of what is believed to have been a long-distance bicycle tour across West Africa. The seasoned traveler reportedly entered Nigeria via the Niger Republic on May 19.
Hotel management said that Mr. Gilles began to feel ill on June 7 but declined hospital care. His condition deteriorated overnight, prompting staff to call in a medical professional. Unfortunately, he was found dead before help could arrive.
The hotel manager, Emmanuel Terhide Laha, promptly reported the incident to the police. Officers from the “A” Division led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) visited the scene, took photographs for evidence, and arranged for the body to be transferred to General Hospital, Gboko, where it is now awaiting an autopsy.
Police sources have confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and that diplomatic protocols are being observed to ensure the case is handled with respect and transparency. The French embassy has been notified, and collaborative efforts are underway to determine the cause of death and coordinate repatriation procedures.
Benue State at a Crossroads
The events of this past week underscore the precarious state of security and public health in Benue. While locals live under the shadow of violence, the death of a foreign visitor highlights broader concerns around emergency response and safety protocols for tourists in rural Nigeria.
As investigations continue and diplomatic efforts unfold, the call for accountability, security, and protection of human life grows louder. For the people of Benue and visitors alike, the demand is simple: safety, justice, and a government that listens.
