Disturbing videos capturing the brutal treatment endured by late University of Jos graduate and model Ibrahiam Mbaya in the moments before his death have gone viral on social media, sparking widespread outrage. Mbaya died from severe injuries sustained after being accused of stealing an iPhone.
Viral Footage Shows Gruesome Beating
The videos circulating online depict a grim scene. In one clip, Mbaya's body appears severely swollen and he is tied to a pole, left hanging. Another clip shows him being struck repeatedly with planks while a crowd of onlookers watch. Some bystanders reportedly left only to return with additional objects to continue the assault.
According to social media users who shared the footage, the young man was beaten mercilessly without any intervention from those present. User @getitrightnaija commented: "So because of phone that one carry plank de knack person for head like that?" Another user, @kubanjejosephine, asked: "Does this mean that empathy is dead? Why are people just watching, without helping?"
Four Suspects Arraigned in Court
The case has since moved to the courts. Four suspects have been arraigned in connection with Mbaya's death. Reports indicate that the accused have confessed to their roles in the assault that led to the model's passing. The police have not disclosed their identities or the specific charges filed.
This incident has reignited debates about jungle justice in Nigeria. User @arthurscottoriginal shared: "Jungle justice is bad, God saved me when I was falsely accused that year 2019 before covid." Another user, @tsd_dan, asked: "Why are the other students watching this kind of treatment? They would have stop it and take the suspect to the university security for further investigation."
Outpouring of Grief and Anger Online
The viral footage has triggered an outpouring of grief and anger across social media platforms. Many Nigerians are questioning the mindset of those who watched the assault without intervening. User @ovalnyce noted: "Devil's advocate: the same thing happened a few years ago... That was how innocent students were burned to death after being falsely accused of theft. The way we treat one another is often reflected in how we are treated in the diaspora."
Mbaya, a recent graduate of the University of Jos and a model, was well-known on campus. His untimely death has left family, friends, and the public demanding justice. The videos serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of mob violence and the erosion of empathy in society.
