Security operatives in Plateau State have arrested some suspects following the mob killing of Ibrahim Mbaye, an undergraduate of the University of Jos, over allegations that he stole an iPhone. The National Association of Nigerian Students has demanded that every person linked to the attack be identified, investigated, and prosecuted under the law.

Preliminary reports disclosed that Mbaye was assaulted by a group of individuals, publicly humiliated, and confined in a room after being accused of the theft. NANS noted that the phone in question was never recovered from him before his death.

The National President of NANS, Comrade Akinteye Babatunde, described the killing as tragic and unacceptable in a statement, stressing that losing a young undergraduate in such circumstances threatens justice, human rights and the safety of students nationwide. He maintained that theft allegations must always be handled through lawful procedures rather than violence, warning that mob actions undermine the justice system and expose innocent persons to fatal consequences without due process.

While welcoming the arrests already made, the association urged the Plateau State Police Command and other relevant authorities to conduct a thorough, impartial and speedy investigation. Babatunde emphasised that justice must not only be served but must be seen to be served, to discourage further acts of mob violence on campuses.

NANS argued that Institutions of higher learning should remain safe spaces where students can learn without fear of violence or unlawful attacks, warning that unpunished jungle justice could entrench a culture of lawlessness within campuses and surrounding communities.

The organisation extended condolences to Mbaye's family, friends and the University of Jos community, describing his death as a painful loss to Nigeria's student population, and reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing justice on his behalf.

The case has reignited public concern over persistent mob violence in Nigeria despite repeated campaigns by security agencies and civil society groups urging citizens to hand suspects to law enforcement rather than resorting to jungle justice, which legal experts warn frequently claims innocent lives and weakens confidence in the justice system.