A 22-year-old man has reportedly died in Owuelu Uratta, located in Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State, after being tortured over the alleged theft of a power bank.
The incident came to public attention after a video surfaced on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), showing the young man tied to a concrete pillar while being brutally beaten by another man wearing a white shirt.
Despite the victim’s pleas and apologies, the assault reportedly continued for several minutes.
According to the video and accompanying post by user @ChuksEricE, the young man eventually died as a result of the beatings.
The video has triggered an outpouring of outrage on social media, with many Nigerians condemning the act and demanding immediate justice for the victim.
Below are some of the reactions from users:
@Refactored: “These individuals should be arrested and charged. This barbarism must end.”
@justsociety4all: “I’m not watching the video—it will ruin my day. Over a power bank? Everyone involved should be jailed.”
@Tobicods: “This country enables impunity. They’d rather go after petty thieves than corrupt leaders. Shame.”
@Plug08066: “A whole lot of people just ruined their lives over a power bank.”
@polo_gee91: “It’s sad that in 2025, we’re still dealing with issues like this while neighbouring countries have moved forward.”
Authorities in Imo State are yet to release an official statement, but human rights groups are calling for a thorough investigation and the prosecution of those involved.
