Nigerian students' body condemns mob killing of university student over iPhone

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has strongly condemned the alleged mob killing of Ibrahim Mbaye, a student at the University of Jos, who was reportedly beaten to death on accusations of stealing an iPhone.

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It is deeply heartbreaking that a promising young student had to lose her life in such a cruel and senseless manner. No allegation, regardless of its nature, justifies mob violence or extrajudicial punishment.

NANS President Akinteye Babatunde described the incident as "heartbreaking," emphasizing that no allegation warrants mob violence or extrajudicial punishment. He stated that Mbaye was "brutally assaulted by a group of individuals, humiliated, and locked inside a room," and that the allegedly stolen phone was never found on him.

"It is deeply heartbreaking that a promising young student had to lose his life in such a cruel and senseless manner," Babatunde said. He added that such acts have no place in campuses or society and must be condemned by all students and well-meaning Nigerians.

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I am, however, encouraged by reports that some of the suspects have been arrested. We have repeatedly warned against taking the law into our own hands. Such acts have no place in our campuses or society and must be condemned by every student and every well-meaning Nigerian.

While welcoming reports of arrests made in connection with the incident, Babatunde urged relevant security agencies to conduct a swift and impartial investigation. He stressed the importance of ensuring that all responsible parties are brought to justice, stating, "Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done, as this will serve as a deterrent to anyone who believes violence is an alternative to due process."

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Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done, as this will serve as a deterrent to anyone who believes violence is an alternative to due process.

The Plateau State Police Command has arrested three suspects in connection with the alleged mob killing. NANS extended condolences to Mbaye's family, friends, and the University of Jos community.

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No student should ever lose their life to jungle justice.