The death of Ibrahim Pilasar Mbaya, a 25-year-old aspiring model and former University of Jos (UniJos) student, has sparked nationwide outrage after he allegedly died following a mob assault over accusations of stealing an iPhone 12 in Jos, Plateau State.
The incident, which occurred on July 26, has drawn widespread condemnation from students, civil society groups and the public, with many calling for justice and an end to jungle justice. The Plateau State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of three suspects, while investigations are ongoing.
Here are five key facts about Ibrahim Mbaya:
1. He Was Popularly Known as “Ibee”
Although his full name was Ibrahim Pilasar Mbaya, friends and followers affectionately called him “Ibee.” The nickname featured prominently on his social media accounts, where he shared moments from his personal life and career aspirations.
2. He Was Pursuing Careers in Modelling and Baking
Mbaya described himself as both a model and baker, combining his passion for fashion with entrepreneurship. Friends and associates remembered him as an ambitious and hardworking young man determined to build a successful career in the creative industry.
3. He Had Recently Been Selected as a Pageant Finalist
Just days before his death, Mbaya was announced as one of the Top 30 finalists in the Mr & Miss Glam Nigeria 2026 competition, a youth-focused pageant that promotes fashion, leadership and cultural development. Organisers had recently shared videos of him participating in one of the competition’s runway tasks.
4. His Final Social Media Post Reflected Peace
Mbaya’s last Instagram post, shared on July 24, featured photographs of himself with the caption:
“A little sunshine, a little silence, a lot of peace.”
The post has since attracted thousands of reactions from Nigerians mourning his death and demanding justice.
Also read: Alleged mob killing at University of Jos sparks outrage as NANS demands justice
5. He Was Preparing for His Next Birthday
According to information on his social media pages, Mbaya was due to celebrate his birthday on September 18, making his death all the more tragic for family, friends and supporters who had looked forward to celebrating the milestone with him.
Police Investigation Underway
The Plateau State Police Command said Mbaya was brought unconscious to the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) by some youths, where doctors confirmed him dead on arrival.
Police spokesperson SP Alfred Alabo said three suspects have been arrested in connection with the alleged killing and transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other suspects believed to have fled. Preliminary investigations indicate that the victim was allegedly assaulted by a group after being accused of stealing a mobile phone instead of being handed over to law enforcement authorities.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the incident, describing it as heartbreaking and calling for a thorough investigation and the prosecution of all those responsible.
The case has reignited concerns over mob justice in Nigeria, with rights advocates urging members of the public to allow security agencies to investigate criminal allegations rather than resorting to violence.
