By Seyi Odewale
The Nigeria Police is investigating the killing of Frank Ibe, a 21-year-old man who died on May 21, 2025, in the Festac axis of Lagos State during celebrations marking his birthday, following an alleged mob attack at a private venue, police and community sources have said.
Frank Ibe, born on May 21, 2004, was reportedly assaulted after a dispute at the party escalated into violence.
Sources familiar with the investigation said the disagreement stemmed from private matters involving the deceased and some of his associates, which were allegedly exposed during the gathering.
Instead of the matter being reported to law enforcement authorities, some attendees allegedly mobilised an angry crowd that attacked the young man.
He was said to have sustained severe injuries during the assault and later died.
“What happened was a clear case of mob action. No allegation under Nigerian law authorises citizens to take the law into their hands,” a senior police officer involved in the investigation said.
Investigators disclosed that tensions had built up before the birthday celebration following threats linked to the possible exposure of private material involving the deceased and individuals close to him.
Police believe this development may have contributed to the hostile atmosphere that culminated in the fatal violence.
During the investigation, police identified Matouke Glory Samuel (born June 12, 2006) and Michael Uzo (born December 12, 1997) as persons of interest due to their close relationship with the deceased and their reported involvement in events leading up to the incident.
Police sources said Matouke Glory Samuel was in a personal relationship with the deceased and was also involved with a female acquaintance who allegedly discovered private material involving the two men.
According to investigators, threats were made to make the material public, a situation that reportedly heightened tensions ahead of the celebration.
Both Matouke Glory Samuel and Michael Uzo have been missing since May 21, 2025. Police say all efforts to locate them so far have been unsuccessful.
“Their accounts are important to establish what transpired before and during the incident fully. At this stage, the investigation is focused on the unlawful killing, not on rumours or untested claims,” the police officer said.
The police reiterated that even where an allegation suggests a possible offence, suspects must be arrested, investigated, and prosecuted in accordance with due process, stressing that mob justice remains a criminal act.
Police sources at the state command said the search for the two missing individuals is ongoing and appealed to members of the public with credible information on their whereabouts to contact the nearest police station.
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