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๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Nigeria /Crime & Justice

Mob killing: UNIJOS alumni demand justice for graduate

From The Punch · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Under investigation
  • The University of Jos Alumni Association demands justice for Ibrahim Mbaya, who was allegedly killed by a mob.
  • Mbaya was accused of stealing an iPhone and was beaten for hours until he lost consciousness.
  • The alumni association condemned the act as barbaric and called for an end to jungle justice.

The University of Jos Alumni Association is demanding a thorough investigation and justice following the alleged mob killing of its member, Ibrahim Mbaya. The incident occurred on Sunday at an off-campus apartment in Jos, Plateau State, where Mbaya, a model, was reportedly beaten to death after being accused of stealing an iPhone.

We are deeply saddened and outraged by the gruesome killing of our colleague and brother, Ibrahim Mbaya.

โ€” University of Jos Alumni AssociationStatement condemning the alleged mob killing.

According to reports, Mbaya had stayed overnight at a friend's apartment after attending a social event. The following morning, his friend claimed an iPhone was missing and accused Mbaya, as they were the only ones in the apartment. Although Mbaya initially left, he returned when called back to explain himself. He was then allegedly confronted by his friend and a group of youths who assaulted him for several hours with sticks and other objects, seeking a confession until he lost consciousness.

The Plateau State Police Command confirmed the incident and stated that three suspects have been arrested. A nurse who examined Mbaya confirmed his death. A viral video allegedly shows one suspect striking the deceased with a large wooden plank. The police also noted that witnesses reported the prolonged assault.

No Nigerian deserves to die in such a manner, irrespective of any allegation against them.

โ€” University of Jos Alumni AssociationStatement condemning the alleged mob killing.

In a statement, the alumni association condemned the killing as "barbaric, unjustifiable, and a gross violation of the right to life." They emphasized that no Nigerian deserves to die in such a manner, regardless of any allegations. The association urged authorities to expedite investigations, apprehend all involved, and ensure perpetrators face legal consequences, stating, "We demand justice for Ibrahim Mbaya. The rule of law must prevail and not mob action." They also called for increased public awareness about the dangers of jungle justice and stronger mechanisms for protecting lives and property.

We demand justice for Ibrahim Mbaya. The rule of law must prevail and not mob action.

โ€” University of Jos Alumni AssociationStatement demanding legal action against those involved.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.