President Bola Tinubu has ordered security agencies to intensify investigations into the Katsina cleric killing that claimed the lives of Islamic preacher Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka and his friend, Adamu Abubakar, in Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State. The president issued the directive on Tuesday, October 27, following the fatal shooting that occurred outside the cleric’s residence the previous evening.
Tinubu condemned the attack and urged the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant agencies to identify, arrest and prosecute those responsible. The development comes as the terrorist group Ansaru has reportedly claimed responsibility for the killings, although the police have not confirmed the group’s involvement.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about the safety of religious leaders and the wider security situation in northern Nigeria.
Police Intensify Investigation Into Katsina Cleric Killing
The Katsina State Police Command confirmed that the attack occurred at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Monday, October 26. According to the police, two armed men riding on a motorcycle opened fire on Masussuka and Abubakar outside the cleric’s residence before escaping.
Police officers responded after receiving information about the shooting and rushed both victims to a nearby hospital. However, medical personnel pronounced the men dead upon arrival.
Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Katsina State, Ali Umar Fage, ordered the deployment of tactical and operational teams to track down the fleeing suspects. The command also confirmed that an investigation had commenced.
The police have not publicly identified the attackers or established their motive. Authorities are expected to gather evidence and investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting as efforts to apprehend the suspects continue.
Tinubu’s directive adds to the ongoing investigation by urging security agencies to act swiftly and ensure that those responsible face justice.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president described the killings as a heinous act and an assault on peace and the sanctity of human life.
He also extended his condolences to the families of the deceased, their followers and the government and people of Katsina State. Tinubu prayed for comfort for those mourning the victims and called on security agencies to strengthen their efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Ansaru Claims Responsibility as Investigation Continues
The Katsina cleric killing has attracted further attention following a report that Ansaru claimed responsibility for the attack.
Premium Times reported on October 27 that the group, formally known as Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina Fi Biladis Sudan, made the claim in a four-minute video obtained by the newspaper. According to the report, the group cited Masussuka’s religious views and advocacy for peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths as reasons for targeting him.
Masussuka was known for his Quran-centred teachings and his support for peaceful relations among Nigerians of different religious backgrounds. He had also spoken against violent extremism and radicalisation.
The reported claim has raised questions about whether the cleric was targeted because of his religious positions. However, the circumstances surrounding the attack remain under investigation, and the claim has not been independently established as proof of Ansaru’s involvement.
The police have yet to publicly confirm the group’s responsibility. Investigators must establish the identities of the gunmen and determine whether the reported claim is supported by evidence.
Security experts have also raised concerns about the threats that extremist groups can pose to individuals whose views conflict with their ideology. However, investigators will need to establish the specific circumstances of this case before drawing conclusions about the motive.
The incident has renewed attention on the protection of religious figures who promote peaceful coexistence, particularly in areas facing persistent security challenges.
As the investigation continues, authorities have not announced a confirmed arrest in the reports reviewed. The government’s immediate priority remains identifying the attackers, establishing the facts and ensuring that those responsible are brought before the law.
Tinubu’s directive signals the federal government’s demand for a thorough investigation, while the police continue their search for the suspects. Further official updates are expected to clarify the circumstances of the killings and any evidence linking specific individuals or groups to the attack.
