The alleged killing of a University of Jos (UNIJOS) student by fellow students over accusations of stealing a missing iPhone has sparked widespread outrage, with the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) calling for a thorough investigation and the prosecution of those responsible.
According to reports that emerged on Sunday, the victim, identified as Ibrahim Mbaye, was allegedly beaten, tortured and detained by a group of students after being accused of stealing an iPhone 16. The phone was reportedly never recovered from him before he died from injuries allegedly sustained during the assault.
In a statement, NANS President Akinteye Babatunde Afeez condemned the incident, describing it as “cruel, senseless and unacceptable.”
The student body stressed that no allegation of theft justifies mob action or extrajudicial punishment, urging law enforcement agencies to ensure that everyone involved is identified, arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
NANS also extended its condolences to the victim’s family, friends and the University of Jos community, insisting that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done in order to deter future acts of campus violence.
The incident has generated widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the prevalence of jungle justice and calling for universities to strengthen security measures and conflict-resolution mechanisms to prevent similar tragedies.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Plateau State Police Command nor the University of Jos had issued a comprehensive official statement detailing the circumstances surrounding the incident or confirming the number of arrests made. While some online reports alleged that the police had remained silent, there has been no verified official confirmation supporting claims of deliberate inaction by the authorities.
The case has renewed concerns about the dangers of mob justice in Nigerian tertiary institutions, with rights advocates urging students to report criminal allegations to the appropriate authorities rather than resort to violence.
Investigations into the incident are expected to continue as stakeholders await official updates from the police and the university administration.
