It was indeed a tragic moment for the university town of Nsukka, in Enugu state as a UNN student, Godwin Agbese, from the Department of English and Literary Studies was allegedly beaten to death in a mob action. The incident was said to have happened on Tuesday evening, December 9.
An eyewitness told WITHIN NIGERIA that the victim was said to have been accused of stealing a mobile phone at Eni Njoku hostel in the university.
Our source also revealed that the said lost phone belonged to the virtually impaired student in Eni-Njoku hostel.
Narrating further, our source explained that when Mr. Agbese was allegedly caught, he was dragged to one of the bunks, tied, tortured and beaten to death.
However, another source also had it that “when he continued to proclaim his innocence, they decided to take him to a native doctor for “proof.” On the way, he was beaten unconscious and eventually died, and his body was dumped by the roadside, even after his parents had agreed to pay for the missing phone.
“Till now, there are conflicting accounts, some claim it was only an allegation and he wasn’t caught with any phone, while others insist, he actually stole it.
“But what is undeniable is that the young man was tied to a bunk, tortured, and beaten without proper evidence or investigation.
“What breaks the heart is that from beginning to end, no one thought it wise to call the UNN security or report the matter to the appropriate authorities. A matter that could have been resolved legally ended with a death that never should have happened.
“Even if he had stolen the phone, I don’t think theft has become a death sentence in Nigeria.
“He should have been handed over to security. He should have been asked to defend himself. He should have had the opportunity to defend himself. Godwin should chance to live.”
In any case, one of the security personnel working in the university who spoke to our reporter under the condition of anonymity said the matter is being investigated.
In his words, “It is true that the incident happened; it is indeed a sad one, but it is still being investigated to unravel what actually transpired.
By and large, the Acting Public Relations Officer of the university, Mr. Inya Agha Egwu, when contacted on phone stated that he was not on seat as he travelled outside the university; hence cannot confirm it.