*555 killed in mob violence across Nigeria

A student of the University of Jos, Ibrahim Mbaye, has reportedly been beaten to death by fellow students over allegations that he stole an iPhone 16, sparking outrage and renewed calls for an end to jungle justice on Nigerian campuses.

Mbaye was allegedly subjected to a brutal assault by a group of individuals, humiliated and locked inside a room following accusations that he stole the device.

Reports indicate that the iPhone was never found in his possession.

The tragic incident has drawn condemnation from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), which described the killing as cruel, senseless and unacceptable.

In a statement issued last night, NANS President, Akinteye Afeez, expressed grief over Mbaye’s death and extended condolences to his family, friends and the University of Jos community.

“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,” Afeez said.

He noted that some suspects have reportedly been arrested and urged security agencies to ensure that all those involved are brought to justice.

The student body warned against resorting to self-help and violence in resolving disputes, stressing that such actions have no place in institutions of learning.

“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,” the statement added.

Calling for a thorough, impartial and swift investigation, Akinteye said justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done to deter future acts of mob violence.

He emphasised that no student deserves to lose his or her life to jungle justice, irrespective of the allegations levelled against them.

“No student should ever lose their life to jungle justice,” the NANS President stated.

The tragic killing of Mbaye has once again raised concerns over student safety and the growing incidence of mob justice in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions, underscoring the need for stronger campus security measures and greater respect for due process in handling allegations of wrongdoing.

The incident also reflects a broader national challenge. In a 2024 report, Amnesty International disclosed that at least 555 people fell victim to mob violence in the country between 2012 and 2023, highlighting the deadly consequences of extrajudicial punishment and the urgent need for accountability and public education against jungle justice.