Mbaya

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The University of Jos Alumni Association has called for a thorough investigation into the alleged mob killing of one of its members, Ibrahim Mbaya, and urged security agencies to ensure that everyone connected with the incident is brought to justice.

Mbaya, a Jos-based model and alumnus of the University of Jos, reportedly lost his life on Sunday after he was allegedly attacked by a group of youths 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 incident and announced the arrest of three suspects identified as Rinji Daniel Fwanji, Emmanuel Newyear and Nensemka Fwanji over the alleged culpable homicide.

According to available reports, Mbaya attended a social event before deciding to spend the night at a friend’s apartment because it was too late for him to return home. He was also said to have been working to resolve an outstanding academic matter at the University of Jos.

The following morning, his friend allegedly informed him that an iPhone was missing and accused him of stealing it because both of them were the only occupants of the apartment. Although Mbaya initially left the premises, he reportedly returned after his friend asked him to come back and explain himself.

Police said he was confronted by his friend and a group of youths after his return. The group allegedly accused him of stealing the phone before assaulting him with sticks and other objects for several hours in an attempt to force a confession. He eventually lost consciousness, while a nurse who examined him later reportedly confirmed that he had died.

The command also disclosed that one of the suspects appeared in a viral video allegedly hitting the deceased with a large wooden plank.

Reacting to the incident, the University of Jos Alumni Association condemned the killing in a statement issued on Tuesday. The association described the attack as “barbaric, unjustifiable, and a gross violation of the right to life.”

“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 association urged the relevant authorities to speed up investigations, arrest every person involved in the incident and ensure that those responsible face justice.

“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 alumni body also appealed to governments at all levels to intensify public awareness campaigns against jungle justice and strengthen measures aimed at protecting 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 sympathy to Mbaya’s family and pledged its support in their pursuit of justice.