A promising 25-year-old model and University of Jos graduate, Ibrahim Mbaya, tragically lost his life following a brutal assault sparked by accusations of a stolen mobile phone. Known to friends as Ibee, Mbaya was allegedly attacked by his host and several associates after an iPhone 12 went missing at an apartment in the City of David area of Jos. Rather than involving law enforcement, the group reportedly subjected the victim to hours of physical torture using wooden planks and other objects.
By the time Mbaya was taken to the Jos University Teaching Hospital, he had already succumbed to his injuries. Police have since arrested three suspects: Rinji Daniel Fwanji, Emmanuel Newyear, and Nensemka Fwanji. Authorities confirmed that one suspect was identified in viral footage assaulting the deceased. The suspects remain in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department as investigations continue into those who participated in the violence.
The incident has triggered widespread condemnation across Plateau State and beyond. Former Minister of Sports Solomon Dalung and student leaders have denounced the act, warning against the growing trend of vigilante justice where citizens act as judge and executioner. Mbaya’s family, led by his sister Pilasar Zara, is calling for the full prosecution of those responsible. The Plateau State Police Command has issued a stern warning against mob violence, emphasizing that illegal self-help measures are unacceptable and punishable by law.
