A violent mob incident in Keffi, Nasarawa State, has resulted in the death of a man accused of being involved in the killing of a teenage boy. The suspect, identified as Isma’ila Zaria, was reportedly attacked by an angry crowd and killed before security agencies could take control of the situation. His body was later set on fire, triggering widespread condemnation across the community.

Local sources said the suspect had earlier been arrested by members of a vigilante group following the discovery of the teenager’s body in a pit within a nearby compound. However, tension escalated when a crowd stormed the vigilante office, overpowered those on duty, and carried out the attack. Attempts by police officers to intervene reportedly led to clashes, with officers injured and patrol vehicles damaged.

The victim, Aliyu Muhammadu Lawal, was later confirmed dead, and his father said there had been a past disagreement between him and the suspect over disturbances in the area. However, he stated that he could not confirm whether that dispute had any connection to his son’s death, leaving the matter for authorities to determine through investigation.

Community leaders and security agencies have condemned the mob action, stressing that justice must follow lawful procedures. The Nasarawa State Police Command confirmed that calm has since been restored in Keffi, while investigations have begun into both the teenager’s death and the mob violence. Police authorities warned residents against taking the law into their own hands, noting that such actions only deepen tragedy and undermine justice.