ActionAid Nigeria has condemned the alleged torture and killing of a 25-year-old University of Jos student, Ibrahim Mbaya, over the alleged theft of a mobile phone, describing the incident as a disturbing indictment of the country’s justice system and growing culture of mob violence.
The organisation called for the immediate prosecution of all those involved in the attack and comprehensive reforms to prevent similar incidents, insisting that no allegation of theft should ever result in the loss of human life.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Dr. Andrew Mamedu, said the circumstances surrounding Mbaya’s death highlight the dangers of jungle justice and the urgent need to strengthen law enforcement, emergency response systems and public confidence in the rule of law.
According to reports referenced by the organisation, the student was tied up and brutally assaulted until he lost consciousness after being accused of stealing a mobile phone.
“A missing phone must never become a death sentence,” Mamedu said.
He described mob violence as a gross violation of the rights to life, dignity and fair hearing, warning that the killing reflects a society where citizens increasingly resort to self-help because of declining confidence in security and justice institutions.
ActionAid stressed that every person accused of an offence is entitled to due process under the law, adding that mob attacks undermine the justice system and erode respect for fundamental human rights.
The organisation said Mbaya’s death was not an isolated case but part of a growing pattern of mob violence linked to weak law enforcement and delayed judicial processes.
It also expressed concern over the safety of students living outside university campuses, questioning how the victim was allegedly restrained and tortured for hours without intervention from nearby residents, community security structures or law enforcement agencies.
Although the incident reportedly occurred at an off-campus residence, ActionAid argued that universities have a responsibility to strengthen measures that protect students beyond their campuses.
It urged tertiary institutions to establish effective emergency reporting systems and improve collaboration among university authorities, students, landlords, host communities and security agencies to enhance the safety of off-campus residents.
While acknowledging the arrest of four suspects by the Plateau State Police Command, the organisation called for a thorough, transparent and timely investigation, followed by the prosecution of all those found culpable.
It also urged authorities to keep the victim’s family informed throughout the judicial process and provide them with legal, psychosocial and welfare support.
ActionAid further called on the University of Jos, the Plateau State Government and security agencies to review existing security arrangements and emergency response mechanisms available to students both on and off campus.
Mamedu maintained that justice in the case must extend beyond securing convictions.
According to him, the tragedy should serve as a catalyst for reforms that strengthen security institutions, improve accountability and restore public confidence in the criminal justice system.
The organisation expressed condolences to Mbaya’s family, friends and the University of Jos community, while reaffirming its commitment to advocating justice for the victim and renewed efforts to eradicate mob violence across Nigeria.
