Amnesty International Nigeria has strongly condemned the killing of Pastor Dio Idon by a mob in southern Kaduna, describing the incident as a disturbing example of the growing culture of mob violence and “jungle justice” in the country.
In a statement on Monday, the human rights organisation said Pastor Idon was lynched by members of his community over allegations of witchcraft following the death of his brother, who had reportedly suffered a prolonged illness. After his brother’s death, Pastor Idon was accused of being responsible through alleged witchcraft.
According to Amnesty International, the mob attacked and killed the cleric, after which his remains were burnt to ashes.
“The horrifying incident is an example of how people increasingly take the law into their own hands,” Amnesty International said, adding that mob violence has become one of the biggest threats to the right to life in Nigeria.
The organisation noted that the persistence of such killings, with very few cases thoroughly investigated or prosecuted, reflects what it described as a shocking failure by authorities to uphold their obligation to protect citizens from violence and harm.
Amnesty International called on Nigerian authorities to urgently and impartially investigate the killing and ensure that all those suspected to be involved, either directly or indirectly, are brought to justice.
The incident occurred on Sunday, January 4, 2026. Until his death, Pastor Dio Idon served as the pastor of ECWA Ungwan Shaawa Local Church Council (LC), Kasuwan Magani District Church Council (DCC), Kaduna State.
