An Egyptian national, Mohammed Saleh, aged 56, tragically died after collapsing while dining at the Abuja Intercontinental Hotel located in Wuse Zone 4, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. The incident, which took place on Friday night, has sparked an ongoing police investigation into the cause of his sudden death.

Security expert Zazazola Makama shared details of the incident on social media platform X, revealing that Saleh was dining with three other individuals when he suddenly slumped. The hotel’s security supervisor, Francis Yusuf, promptly reported the case to the Wuse Police Division at approximately 9:24 p.m., prompting immediate medical and law enforcement response.

Saleh was first taken to King’s Care Hospital in Wuse Zone 4 before being referred to the Wuse District Hospital, where medical personnel confirmed his death. His remains have since been deposited at the hospital morgue for a thorough autopsy as authorities seek to determine the exact circumstances surrounding his passing.

The police have opened a formal investigation into the matter, with the FCT Police Command spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, acknowledging the case but yet to provide detailed updates.

This incident adds to a growing list of cases involving foreign nationals found dead in Nigerian hotels, raising concerns about health emergencies and emergency response protocols in hospitality venues. Earlier this year, an 80-year-old Colombian man, Quesada Alfonso, was found dead in a hotel room in FESTAC Town, Lagos State.

Authorities investigated that case as well, noting the deceased had been residing in the hotel for several months prior to his death.

As the investigation into Mohammed Saleh’s death continues, the hospitality industry and security agencies are reminded of the critical importance of swift emergency response and enhanced safety measures to protect guests and residents alike. The outcome of the autopsy and police findings will shed more light on this unfortunate event.

Residents and visitors to Abuja await further information from law enforcement on this tragic occurrence.

At least 10 protesters died and 87 others were injured on Monday during violent clashes with police in Kathmandu, Nepal. Security forces used rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons to disperse demonstrators demanding the government lift its ban on social media platforms and address widespread corruption.

The government blocked access to 26 unregistered social media sites, including Facebook, YouTube, and X, starting Friday, sparking public outrage and confusion among millions of users who rely on these platforms for news, entertainment, and business.

Shekhar Khanal, spokesperson for Kathmandu Valley police, confirmed the casualties and said the protests continued despite police efforts to quell them. Many injured protesters were treated at Civil Hospital, where tear gas also affected medical staff.

The demonstrations began peacefully, with protesters waving national flags and singing the anthem before tensions escalated near the parliament area. Protesters breached barriers and even entered the parliament grounds, prompting police to respond with force. Authorities imposed curfews in key parts of the capital, including areas around the parliament and the prime minister’s office.

Similar protests took place in other parts of Nepal as citizens voiced frustrations not only over the social media restrictions but also against entrenched corruption and government authoritarianism.

“We are protesting against corruption that has been institutionalized in Nepal,” said 24-year-old student Yujan Rajbhandari. Another protester, Ikshama Tumrok, 20, called for change, saying the current generation must end the cycle of oppression.

Videos highlighting the stark contrast between ordinary Nepalis’ struggles and politicians’ luxurious lifestyles have gone viral on platforms like TikTok, which remains accessible.

The government had previously given banned companies seven days to register locally and comply with regulations following a Supreme Court order last year. Despite stating its commitment to freedom of expression, Nepal has a history of restricting digital platforms, including a recent ban on Telegram and a temporary ban on TikTok that was lifted after compliance agreements.

The situation remains tense as authorities work to restore order amid ongoing protests.

Britain’s Duchess of Kent, who was known for her links to the Wimbledon tennis tournament, has died at 92, Buckingham Palace said on Friday.

The duchess, born Katharine Worsley into an aristocratic Yorkshire family in northern England, was married to the Duke of Kent, a first cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

For many years, she presented the trophies to the winners at Wimbledon.

“It is with deep sorrow that Buckingham Palace announces the death of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Kent,” Buckingham Palace said in a statement.

“The King and Queen and all members of The Royal Family join The Duke of Kent, his children and grandchildren in mourning their loss and remembering fondly The Duchess’s life-long devotion to all the organisations with which she was associated, her passion for music and her empathy for young people,” it added.

The Union Flag at Buckingham Palace was lowered to half-mast at midday as a mark of respect.

AFP