Gunmen have killed prominent Islamic cleric Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka and his associate, Adamu Abubakar, in an attack outside the preacher’s residence in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The attack occurred at about 7:30 p.m. on Monday, October 26, 2026, when two armed men riding on a motorcycle reportedly opened fire on the victims before fleeing.
The Katsina State Police Command confirmed the deaths, saying both men sustained fatal gunshot injuries and were taken to a nearby hospital, where they were pronounced dead.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, said the Divisional Police Officer in Dutsin-Ma led officers to the scene after receiving a report of the attack.
He added that Commissioner of Police Ali Umar Fage had ordered the deployment of tactical teams to track down the suspects. An investigation is ongoing, but no arrests or motive have been announced.
Amnesty International condemns killing
Amnesty International Nigeria condemned the killing and called for an immediate and effective investigation.
The organisation said Masussuka was known for promoting peaceful coexistence, interfaith dialogue and cooperation among Muslims. It also said the cleric had preached against violent extremism and radicalisation.
Amnesty further alleged that Masussuka had faced threats and intimidation during his lifetime, although it remains unclear whether these were connected to his killing.
Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda also mourned the cleric and called for a thorough investigation. He urged residents to remain calm and provide security agencies with credible information that could help identify the perpetrators.
Who was Masussuka?
Masussuka was a prominent Islamic preacher in Dutsin-Ma known for his Qur’an-centred approach to religious interpretation. His views on Islamic teachings, particularly his criticism of some Hadith traditions, generated disagreements with other scholars.
He was also associated with religious media and educational initiatives and was known for advocating peaceful coexistence.
In late 2025, he reportedly faced scrutiny from a committee of Islamic scholars following complaints about aspects of his teachings.
However, there is no confirmed evidence linking those disagreements to Monday’s attack.
The killing has prompted calls for justice from the cleric’s followers and associates, some of whom have urged the public to remain calm and avoid reprisals.
As investigations continue, the identities of the gunmen and the motive for the attack remain unknown.
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