How Suspects Tortured UNIJOS Graduate to Death Over Missing iPhone 12

• The prime suspect in the mob killing of UNIJOS graduate Ibrahim Mbaya has confessed to striking the victim three times with a wooden plank, while other suspects also revealed their alleged roles during police interrogation.

The prime suspect in the alleged mob killing of University of Jos graduate, Ibrahim Pilasar Mbaya, popularly known as Ibee, has confessed to repeatedly attacking the deceased with a wooden plank, as police continue investigating the incident that has sparked nationwide outrage.

During police interrogation, Emmanuel Newyear admitted striking Mbaya three times with a wooden plank after accusing him of stealing an iPhone 12.

According to Newyear, Mbaya allegedly gave different locations where the missing phone was said to be hidden, but searches failed to recover the device. He claimed he later instructed others not to assault the victim before leaving the scene, only to return and find a crowd had gathered and Mbaya had been severely beaten.

The owner of the missing phone, Rinji Daniel Fwanji, told investigators that Mbaya had spent the night at his residence before allegedly disappearing with his iPhone 12. He said he intended to report the matter through legal channels and identified Emmanuel as the first person to assault the victim.

Another suspect, Joshua Tell, admitted helping to restrain Mbaya while others tied him up but denied taking part in the beating.

Nensemka Fwanji, the phone owner’s brother, said he witnessed the assault and later rushed Mbaya to the hospital after realizing the extent of his injuries. He confirmed that the missing phone has not been recovered.

Mbaya, a Political Science graduate awaiting mobilisation for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), reportedly died after being accused of stealing the phone.

Reacting to the tragedy, the deceased’s younger sister called for justice, insisting that those responsible for her brother’s death must face the full weight of the law.

She described Mbaya as a peaceful, hardworking young man who had never been known for theft or violence.