Amnesty International has strongly condemned the killing of Pastor Dio Idon by a mob in southern Kaduna State, urging Nigerian authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that all those responsible are brought to justice.
The rights organisation described the incident as a disturbing example of the growing trend of mob violence and “jungle justice” in Nigeria, where individuals take the law into their own hands with fatal consequences.
Pastor Idon was reportedly lynched by members of his community following the death of his brother, who had suffered a prolonged illness. After his brother’s passing, the pastor was accused of causing the death through alleged witchcraft. He was subsequently attacked by the mob, and his remains were reportedly burned to ashes.
Amnesty International noted that mob violence remains one of the gravest threats to the right to life in Nigeria. The organisation expressed concern that such killings have persisted for years with few cases properly investigated or prosecuted, pointing to what it described as a shocking failure by authorities to uphold their obligation to protect citizens from violence.
The organisation called on Nigerian authorities to urgently investigate the killing and ensure accountability for all those involved, both directly and indirectly.
The incident occurred on Sunday, 4 January 2026. Until his death, Pastor Idon served as the pastor of ECWA Ungwa Shaawa LC, Kasuwan Magani DCC, Kaduna State.
