Gunmen Kill Islamic Cleric, Friend in Katsina

Suspected gunmen have killed prominent Islamic cleric Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka and his friend, Adamu Abubakar, in an attack outside the cleric’s residence in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The incident occurred at about 7:30 p.m. on Monday, October 26, when two armed men riding on a motorcycle reportedly opened fire on the victims before fleeing the scene.

The Katsina State Police Command confirmed the killings, stating that both victims sustained fatal gunshot wounds. They were taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention but were pronounced dead on arrival.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, said the Divisional Police Officer in Dutsin-Ma led a team of operatives to the scene after receiving information about the attack.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Ali Umar Fage, has ordered the deployment of tactical and operational teams to locate and arrest the fleeing suspects. An investigation has also commenced to establish the circumstances surrounding the killings.

The identities of the attackers and their motive had not been established at the time of reporting, while no arrests had been announced.

Masussuka was known for his Islamic teachings, promotion of peaceful coexistence and interfaith understanding, as well as his opposition to violent extremism and radicalisation.

The cleric was reportedly preparing for a peace and unity gathering scheduled for October 31 before his death.

The killing has drawn calls for a thorough investigation, with authorities urging residents to cooperate with security agencies and provide credible information that could assist efforts to apprehend those responsible.

The police expressed condolences to the families, friends and followers of the deceased, as well as residents of Dutsin-Ma, and pledged to pursue the suspects and bring them to justice.