Tragedy struck at the Permanent Site of Ebonyi State University (EBSU), Ezzamgbo, in Ohaukwu Local Government Area, as a security guard, Ebube Igboke, was allegedly beaten to death by his colleagues over accusations of theft.
Igboke, a native of Ezzama in Ezza South Local Government Area, was employed by Middle Pillar Security, a private security firm contracted by the university. His brutal death has sparked public outcry, with his family demanding justice and calling for a thorough investigation.
The Ebonyi State Police Command confirmed the incident on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, with the command’s spokesperson, SP Joshua Ukandu, revealing that three individuals have been arrested in connection with the crime.
“They said they caught someone stealing at EBSU’s permanent site. The people who apprehended him may have taken the law into their own hands and beaten him,” Ukandu stated.
He further explained that although Igboke did not die immediately, it was only after some time that the perpetrators decided to take him to the police station. However, instead of detaining him, officers instructed them to take him to the hospital for medical attention.
“Unfortunately, it was at the hospital that doctors confirmed he had passed away. At that point, the three individuals who brought him in were taken into custody for further investigation,” he added.
Igboke’s family has since petitioned the Ebonyi State Commissioner of Police, Adaku Uche-Anya, demanding that those responsible for his death face the full weight of the law.
In the petition, signed by their legal representative, D. I. Njoku, the family alleged that Igboke was deliberately tortured and murdered before his body was handed over to the police. They also claimed that his fiancée, Oluomachi, who is also an employee of Middle Pillar Security, was prevented from taking him to the hospital when she learned of the assault.
The family has called on the police authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and prosecution of those involved, emphasizing that jungle justice must not be tolerated.
The incident has generated widespread condemnation, with many questioning the rising cases of mob justice and extrajudicial killings in Nigeria. Human rights advocates have urged security agencies to ensure that due process is followed and that no individual takes the law into their own hands.
As investigations continue, the university authorities and Middle Pillar Security are yet to issue official statements regarding the tragic death of their employee. Meanwhile, the arrested suspects remain in police custody as efforts to unravel the full circumstances surrounding the killing are underway.
