UNIJOS Graduate Beaten to Death Over Missing iPhone: Three Arrested as Viral Mob Attack Sparks Nationwide Outrage

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The tragic death of a 25-year-old University of Jos (UNIJOS) graduate and aspiring model, Ibrahim Mbaya, popularly known as “Ibee,” has sparked widespread outrage across Nigeria after he was allegedly beaten to death by a mob over accusations of stealing an iPhone.

The incident occurred on Sunday, July 26, at an off-campus apartment behind the City of David area along Ring Road in Jos, Plateau State.

According to reports, Mbaya, who was based in Jos and was reportedly resolving an outstanding academic matter after graduating from the University of Jos, had attended a social event before deciding to spend the night at a friend’s apartment because it was too late to return home.

The following morning, his host allegedly claimed that an iPhone 12 had gone missing and accused Mbaya of taking it, insisting that the two of them were the only occupants of the room overnight.

Sources said Mbaya denied the allegation and initially left the apartment. However, he was later persuaded to return to explain himself, believing the misunderstanding could be resolved peacefully.

Instead, witnesses alleged that he was confronted by his friend and several other youths who accused him of theft before launching a violent attack.

The assailants allegedly beat him with sticks, wooden planks, and other objects for hours in an attempt to force a confession. The relentless assault reportedly continued until Mbaya collapsed and lost consciousness.

One of the attackers was allegedly captured in a now-viral video repeatedly striking the victim with a large wooden plank while others looked on. The disturbing footage has fueled public anger and renewed calls for an end to mob justice in Nigeria.

According to eyewitness accounts, the attackers later sought medical assistance after Mbaya became unresponsive. A nurse who examined him reportedly confirmed that he had died from the severe injuries he sustained during the assault.

Confirming the incident, the Plateau State Police Command said three suspects have been arrested in connection with the alleged culpable homicide.

The suspects were identified as Rinji Daniel Fwanji, Emmanuel Newyear, and Nensemka Fwanji.

Police spokesperson SP Alfred Alabo said preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects took the law into their own hands after accusing Mbaya of theft instead of reporting the matter to law enforcement authorities.

“The Command condemns jungle justice in the strongest terms,” Alabo said.

“No individual or group has the legal authority to assault or kill anyone suspected of committing an offence. Anyone found taking the law into their own hands will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.”

He added that the suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation, while efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest other individuals seen participating in the deadly attack.

The killing has drawn strong condemnation from student leaders, human rights advocates, and members of the public.

Former Acting President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Prince Miaphen, described the incident as “barbaric, cruel, and completely unacceptable,” urging security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure everyone involved is brought to justice.

He said the tragedy underscores the urgent need to end mob violence and reinforce respect for due process and the rule of law.

Friends and associates have also mourned Mbaya, remembering him as a peaceful, hardworking, and talented young man who was steadily building a name for himself in Plateau State’s fashion and entertainment industry.

His death has once again brought national attention to the persistent menace of jungle justice in Nigeria, where suspects are frequently subjected to violent mob attacks without investigation or trial.

Police have appealed to members of the public with useful information about other suspects who fled the scene to come forward, assuring that everyone involved in the killing will be identified and prosecuted.

As investigations continue, Mbaya’s family and supporters are demanding justice, while many Nigerians have taken to social media to call for tougher action against mob violence and greater respect for the country’s justice system.