Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka, a prominent Islamic preacher known for advocating peaceful coexistence and religious tolerance, has been killed alongside his associate, Adamu Abubakar, in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The cleric and his companion were reportedly attacked on Monday evening, October 26, 2026, when two armed men riding a motorcycle opened fire on them outside his residence.
The victims were taken to a nearby hospital but were later pronounced dead.
The Katsina State Police Command has launched an investigation and deployed tactical teams to track down the attackers. As of Tuesday, October 27, no arrests had been announced, and the motive for the killing remained unknown.
WHO WAS SHEIKH YAHAYA MASUSSUKA?
Sheikh Masussuka was a well-known Islamic scholar based in Dutsin-Ma, although he originally hailed from Bauchi State.
He gained recognition for his Qur’an-centred teachings and his advocacy for peaceful relations between Muslims and Christians. He also spoke against violent extremism and encouraged understanding among people of different religious backgrounds.
In April 2024, he established Qur’an TV/Radio and Masussuka International School in Dutsin-Ma. The school was established to provide both Islamic and conventional education.
His contributions to peace advocacy were recognised in June 2025 when the Network for Good Governance and Transparency honoured him with a Peace Ambassador award.
CLERIC HAD REPORTEDLY FACED THREATS
Masussuka’s death has attracted attention partly because of reports that he had previously experienced intimidation and threats over his religious teachings.
In November 2025, the Katsina State Government directed him to defend his teachings before a committee of Islamic scholars following complaints about some of his views.
The government had also received complaints from the cleric concerning alleged insults and threats against him. The matter was referred to the Katsina Emirate Council for discussions.
However, no evidence has established a connection between those earlier disputes and the attack that claimed his life.
POLICE LAUNCH MANHUNT FOR SUSPECTS
Following the shooting, the Katsina State Police Command ordered the deployment of tactical and operational teams to identify and apprehend those responsible.
The police have appealed to residents with useful information to assist the investigation.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has also condemned the killings and directed security agencies to intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda expressed condolences to the deceased’s families, followers and the wider Islamic community, describing the incident as a painful loss.
Amnesty International also condemned the killing and called on the authorities to conduct an effective investigation and ensure that those responsible face justice.
PEACE GATHERING PLANNED BEFORE HIS DEATH
At the time of his death, Masussuka was reportedly preparing for a peace and unity gathering scheduled for October 31, 2026.
His killing has raised fresh concerns about the safety of religious figures and the wider security situation in Katsina State, where communities have continued to face attacks by armed groups.
For now, investigators are expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting, determine the motive and identify the individuals responsible.
Although the late cleric was widely associated with messages of peace and interfaith understanding, the circumstances of his death remain unresolved.
