Gunmen have murdered a prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka, and his associate, Adamu Abubakar, in front of his residence in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The attack happened on Monday, October 26, 2026, when two armed men on a motorcycle opened fire on the cleric and his friend before escaping, a horrifying development that prompted Amnesty International Nigeria to demand justice for the victims, and arrest and punishment for the pepertrators.
Eyewitnesses said the cleric was outside his house at the time of the shooting, though accounts differed on the exact time.
The Katsina State Police Command confirmed the incident, saying both victims suffered fatal gunshot wounds and were rushed to hospital where doctors confirmed them dead.
In a statement, the Command’s spokesman, DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, said: “The Katsina State Police Command regrets to confirm the tragic death of a prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka, and his friend, Adamu Abubakar, following an attack by suspected armed gunmen.”
He said the Divisional Police Officer in Dutsin-Ma led operatives to the scene immediately after the report was received.
“The Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Command, CP Ali Umar Fage, has ordered the deployment of tactical and operational teams to the area. An investigation has commenced, and efforts are being intensified to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects,” he said.
CP Fage commiserated with the families and followers of the deceased and assured that the perpetrators would be tracked down.
The killing has sparked outrage.
Amnesty International Nigeria condemned the murder, describing it as brutal and demanding justice.
“Amnesty International strongly condemns the brutal killing of renowned Islamic preacher Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka, who was killed today by gunmen on motorbikes as he stepped out of his house in Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State, to go for his usual evening preaching,” the group said in a Facebook statement.
It said Masussuka was known for promoting peace, cooperation, interfaith dialogue and understanding among Muslims, and for preaching against violent extremism and radicalisation.
The organisation said the cleric had faced threats and intimidation in his lifetime and called for an immediate and thorough investigation into his killing.
