The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation following the death of a young woman, Aladi Offikwu Johnson—popularly known as Tessy—whose lifeless body was found with her hands tied behind her in a hotel room in Gwarinpa, Abuja.
The chilling incident has triggered a wave of public concern and outrage, especially after a disturbing video from the scene began circulating on social media. Preliminary police reports revealed that Tessy, a native of Benue State, had checked into the hotel on 3rd Avenue, Gwarinpa, on Monday, June 16, 2025, with an unidentified male companion. The man reportedly left the premises alone. Hours later, hotel staff discovered Tessy’s unconscious body during routine rounds. She was confirmed dead by medical personnel shortly after.
FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, disclosed in a statement that the Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao Adewale, has directed a “thorough and discreet investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.”
While the police work to unravel what happened behind closed doors, CP Adewale has appealed for public calm and patience. “We understand the public’s anxiety and grief. Every effort is being made to bring the perpetrator or perpetrators to justice,” he said.
In a note of caution, the Commissioner also addressed the safety of young women in the city. “We advise young ladies to exercise caution in their interactions, especially with unfamiliar individuals, and to always share their whereabouts with trusted friends or family members for safety purposes,” Adewale urged.
Beyond individual caution, the police called for institutional accountability. The statement emphasized the role of hotel operators in preventing such incidents: “Hotel operators must strengthen internal security protocols, including mandatory identity verification for guests and the installation of functional surveillance systems to aid both deterrence and investigation.”
The FCT Police Command extended its condolences to the family of the deceased and assured the public that updates would be provided as the investigation progresses. “Further updates will be communicated in due course,” Adeh concluded.
As the case unfolds, Tessy’s death stands as a stark reminder of the growing security challenges in urban hospitality settings and the urgent need for stronger safeguards to protect vulnerable individuals.
