Tragic Discovery In Abuja: Woman Found Dead In Gwarinpa Hotel, Police Launch Manhunt.
A young woman was found dead in a hotel room in the Gwarinpa area of Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, under disturbing circumstances, sparking a police investigation and public outcry. The victim, identified as Aladi Offikwu Johnson, also known as Tessy, from Benue State, was discovered unconscious with her hands tied behind her back, prompting authorities to suspect foul play.
According to a statement released by the FCT Police Command on Wednesday, 18 June 2025, the incident came to light following a viral video circulating on social media, which showed the lifeless body of the woman in a hotel located at 3rd Avenue, Gwarinpa. The police have sealed the hotel and launched a manhunt for an unidentified male who reportedly checked into the hotel with the victim on 16 June 2025 but left the premises alone. The Commissioner of Police, FCT, CP Ajao S. Adewale, has ordered a thorough and discreet investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Preliminary findings indicate that Ms. Johnson was discovered by hotel staff during routine service rounds. The grim scene, with her hands bound, has raised concerns of a possible homicide, with social media posts describing the incident as “disturbing and confusing.” Authorities have yet to confirm the cause of death, pending a post-mortem examination, but the case has reignited discussions about safety in hotels and the rising incidence of violent crimes in Nigeria.
SP Josephine Adeh, the FCT Police Command’s spokesperson, stated, “The FCT Police Command is aware of the disturbing viral video and is treating this matter with utmost urgency. We are committed to uncovering the truth and bringing those responsible to justice.” She urged the public to refrain from speculation and allow the investigation to proceed unimpeded.
The incident has drawn significant attention on social media, with posts on X expressing shock and sadness. One user, @abujastreets, lamented, “A lady was found dead in a hotel in Gwarinpa with her hands tied behind her back 🥺🥺,” while another, @abjdiary, questioned, “What’s with hotels these days?” The public’s reaction underscores growing concerns about security in hospitality establishments, particularly in light of similar incidents in the past.
This tragedy echoes a 2022 case in which 21-year-old Esther Isaac was found dead in a blood-soaked room at the Agete Hotel in Gwarinpa. Her brother accused the hotel management of a cover-up, citing faulty CCTV footage, and alleged police intimidation. An autopsy later revealed that Esther died of severe asphyxia due to strangulation, though no arrests were made. The recurrence of such incidents has intensified calls for stricter regulations and improved security measures in hotels across the Federal Capital Territory.
As the investigation unfolds, the FCT Police Command has appealed for information from the public to assist in identifying the suspect. The case has cast a sombre shadow over Gwarinpa, a bustling residential and commercial hub, and serves as a stark reminder of the need for enhanced safety protocols to protect vulnerable individuals.
