The death of 25-year-old Ibrahim Pilasar Mbaya, popularly known as “Ibee”, has sparked nationwide outrage after he allegedly died following a mob attack over accusations that he stole an iPhone 12 in Jos, Plateau State.
The Plateau State Police Command said Mbaya was brought unconscious to the Jos University Teaching Hospital by some youths, where doctors confirmed him dead on arrival.
Police spokespersons said three suspects had been arrested in connection with the incident, while efforts were continuing to apprehend other alleged participants.
The National Association of Nigerian Students condemned the killing, describing it as “heartbreaking” and calling for a thorough investigation.
“The incident is heartbreaking and those responsible must be brought to justice,” the association said, urging authorities to ensure a transparent investigation.
Beyond the circumstances of his death, Mbaya was widely remembered as an aspiring model, baker and entrepreneur pursuing opportunities in Nigeria’s fashion industry.
Known to friends and followers as “Ibee,” he had recently been unveiled as one of the Top 30 finalists in the Mr & Miss Glam Nigeria pageant, which promotes fashion, culture, leadership and career development among young Nigerians.
Just days before his death, the pageant organisers shared a video of Mbaya completing one of the competition’s runway tasks.
In an earlier interview, Mbaya described himself as both a baker and a model, highlighting his passion for entrepreneurship and the creative industry.
His final Instagram post reflected a message of calm and hope, carrying the caption: “A little sunshine, a little silence, a lot of peace.” According to information on his social media accounts, he was also preparing to celebrate his next birthday in about two months.
The incident has triggered widespread condemnation on social media, with many Nigerians denouncing jungle justice and demanding accountability.
One X user, SozoTrades, questioned the motive behind the killing, writing: “Why all this killing for phone? Is the phone worth more than a life? Justice for Ibrahim.”
Another user, MR_TRUST, criticised the failure to hand the suspect over to law enforcement, saying: “What happened to taking him to the police station? Now he’s dead.”
On Facebook, Goodhope Odinakachi wrote: “Even if he stole the phone, jungle justice is an offence.”
Allen Oscar also condemned the mob attack, saying: “Y’all complained about SARS… only to become worse than they were.”
Similarly, Gabriel Nwobodo urged respect for due process, writing: “Someone lynched his fellow based on accusation. Let the law deal with him.”
Police said the three arrested suspects had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department as investigations continue and efforts intensify to arrest other alleged suspects.
