EYN Condemns Lynching of UNIJOS Student, Clarifies Victim Not Son of Church President

The Church of the Brethren in Nigeria (EYN) has issued a strong condemnation of the recent lynching of a University of Jos (UNIJOS) student, Ibrahim Pilasar Mbaya. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for justice, with EYN emphasizing the need for accountability and the rule of law. The Church has also taken a firm stance against the spread of misinformation, particularly regarding the identity of the victim.

In a statement, EYN clarified that the deceased was not the son of the Church’s President, Rev. Daniel Y. C. Mbaya, as falsely reported by a Jos-based blogger, Manari TV. Instead, the late Ibrahim was the son of Evang. Pilasar Mbaya, an EYN pastor serving in Marama, and Mrs. Martha Pilasar, who is also a staff member of the Church. The Church expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the young student and extended its condolences to the bereaved family.

EYN described the lynching as a painful and disturbing act that undermines the values of a civilized society. The Church called for an end to such violence and urged authorities to take swift action to bring those responsible to justice. It also emphasized the importance of protecting the vulnerable and upholding the dignity of all individuals, a principle that aligns with the biblical call to protect the weak and speak up for the oppressed.

In addition to mourning the victim, EYN urged journalists, bloggers, and social media users to exercise responsibility in their reporting. The Church warned that the dissemination of false information not only misleads the public but also exacerbates the grief of grieving families. It stressed the necessity of verifying facts before sharing news, especially in cases involving loss of life.

The Church reiterated its commitment to truth, justice, and ethical communication. It called on media organizations and social media platforms to prioritize accuracy and transparency in their coverage. EYN’s statement reflects a broader concern for the integrity of information and the moral responsibility of those who share it.

The incident has highlighted the urgent need for justice and the protection of human life. The EYN’s response underscores the importance of accountability and the role of faith communities in advocating for peace and righteousness. As the community grapples with the tragedy, the call for justice remains a central theme, echoing the biblical mandate to seek justice, mercy, and humble service.

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