The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the alleged mob killing of Ibrahim Mbaye, a student of the University of Jos, describing the incident as a disturbing act of jungle justice and urging authorities to ensure those responsible are prosecuted.
In a statement issued on Monday, NANS National President, Akinteye Babatunde, said the student’s death was a tragic reminder of the dangers of mob violence, insisting that no allegation should justify extrajudicial punishment.
According to Babatunde, Mbaye was allegedly attacked by a group of individuals after being accused of stealing an iPhone. He claimed the student was brutally beaten, publicly humiliated and locked inside a room, adding that the missing phone was never recovered from him.
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“It is deeply heartbreaking that a promising young student had to lose his life in such a cruel and senseless manner. No allegation, regardless of its nature, justifies mob violence or extrajudicial punishment,” Babatunde said.
The student leader welcomed reports that security operatives had arrested suspects in connection with the incident, describing the development as an important step toward accountability.
“I am, however, encouraged by reports that some of the suspects have been arrested. We have repeatedly warned against taking the law into our own hands. Such acts have no place in our campuses or society and must be condemned by every student and every well-meaning Nigerian,” he added.
The Plateau State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of three suspects over the alleged killing. Police authorities are expected to continue investigations to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and establish the culpability of those involved.
Babatunde urged investigators to conduct a thorough, impartial and speedy probe, stressing that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done.
“Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done, as this will serve as a deterrent to anyone who believes violence is an alternative to due process. No student should ever lose their life to jungle justice,” he said.
He also extended condolences to Mbaye’s family, friends and the University of Jos community, praying for strength for those affected by the loss.
The incident has sparked renewed concerns over the persistence of mob justice in Nigeria, despite repeated warnings by security agencies and human rights advocates against taking the law into private hands. Legal experts have consistently argued that criminal allegations should be handled through established judicial processes rather than acts of violence.
Cases of suspected thieves and other accused persons being assaulted by mobs have continued to draw nationwide condemnation, with civil society groups calling for stronger public awareness, prompt law enforcement intervention and stricter prosecution of perpetrators.
The latest incident is expected to intensify calls for improved campus security, greater respect for the rule of law and sustained efforts to discourage vigilante-style justice in communities across the country.
