The University of Jos (UNIJOS) Alumni Association has called on law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure justice over the alleged mob killing of its member, Ibrahim Mbaya.
Chronicle NG gathered that the incident occurred on Sunday at an off-campus apartment behind the City of David area along Ring Road in Jos, Plateau State.
The Plateau State Police Command confirmed the murder, stating that three suspects identified as Rinji Daniel Fwanji, Emmanuel Newyear, and Nensemka Fwanji had been arrested in connection with the alleged culpable homicide.
Mbaya, a Jos-based model, had attended a social event before spending the night at a friend’s apartment because it was too late for him to return home.
According to reports, he was said to have been resolving an outstanding academic issue at the University of Jos, UNIJOS.
It was gathered that the following morning, his friend informed him that an iPhone was missing and accused him of being the prime suspect since they were the only occupants of the apartment.
Although Mbaya left initially, he reportedly returned after being called back to explain himself.
When he returned, the command stated that he was challenged by his companion and a group of adolescents, who accused him of taking the phone.
According to authorities, witnesses claimed that the group attacked him with sticks and other things for several hours in an attempt to force a confession until he passed out.
A nurse who later examined him apparently verified his death.
The command also revealed that one of the suspects was shown in a viral video reportedly beating the victim with a huge wooden plank.
Meanwhile, in a statement made on Tuesday, the alumni condemned the act and branded it as “barbaric, unjustifiable, and a gross violation of the right to life.”
According to the association, Mbaya, an alumnus of the University of Jos, was allegedly battered to death by a crowd under circumstances that remain unclear.
“We are deeply saddened and outraged by the gruesome killing of our colleague and brother, Ibrahim Mbaya,” the statement read.
“No Nigerian deserves to die in such a manner, irrespective of any allegation against them.”
The UNIJOS alumni urged that appropriate authorities speed investigations into the incident, apprehend all individuals involved, and punish the culprits to the fullest extent of the law.
“We demand justice for Ibrahim Mbaya. The rule of law must prevail and not mob action,” the association stated, urging the police to make public the findings of their investigation.
The union additionally called on the government at all levels to promote public awareness on the hazards of jungle justice and to strengthen procedures for the protection of lives and property.
“This incident should serve as a wake-up call for all of us. We must collectively reject mob killings and allow due process to take its course,” the statement added.
The association also expressed condolences to the deceased’s family and promised to support them in their pursuit of justice.
