News

Amnesty International Condemns Mob Killing of Pastor in Kaduna

ByTitilope Adako

PublishedJanuary 6, 2026

Global human rights body, Amnesty International, has condemned the killing of Pastor Dio Idon by a mob in southern Kaduna over allegations of witchcraft and called for a thorough investigation into the incident.

The organisation described the killing as a disturbing example of growing mob violence in Nigeria.

In a statement, Amnesty said, “The horrifying incident is an example of how people increasingly take law into their hands and carry out so-called ‘jungle justice.’”

The incident occurred on Sunday, January 4, 2026.

Until his death, Pastor Idon was the pastor of ECWA Ungwan Shaawa LC, Kasuwan Magani DCC, Kaduna State.

Pastor Idon was reportedly lynched by members of his community following the death of his brother after a prolonged illness.

After his brother’s death, the pastor was accused of causing it through alleged witchcraft.

Amnesty said the allegation triggered the violent attack that led to his death.

According to the organisation, “Remains of Pastor Idon was burned to ashes by the mob.”

The killing has again drawn attention to the persistent problem of mob violence in Nigeria, especially in rural communities.

Human rights groups say allegations of witchcraft, theft or other offences often lead to instant punishment without recourse to law enforcement or the courts.

Rights advocates have repeatedly warned that such actions violate the fundamental right to life and undermine the rule of law.

Amnesty stressed that mob killings remain one of the gravest threats to human rights in Nigeria.

The organisation noted that perpetrators of such violence are rarely held accountable.

“The menace of mob violence is perhaps one of the biggest threats to the right to life in Nigeria,” Amnesty said.

The group said the continued occurrence of mob killings reflects systemic failures by authorities to prevent violence.

According to Amnesty, “The fact that these killings have been happening for a long time, with few cases investigated and prosecuted, highlights the authorities’ shocking failure to uphold and fulfil their obligation to protect people from harm and violence.”

Amnesty called on the Nigerian government to take decisive action over the killing.

“The Nigerian authorities must investigate this incident and ensure that all those suspected of involvement — directly and indirectly — are brought to justice,” the organisation said.

It also urged authorities to take concrete steps to end mob violence.

Amnesty insisted that allegations of crime must be handled strictly through lawful means, in line with Nigeria’s laws and international human rights obligations.

Titilope Adako

Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.