Suspected bandits have shot dead an Islamic cleric, Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka, and his associate in an attack at the entrance to his residence in Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State.
The incident reportedly occurred around 9pm on Monday when the assailants opened fire on the cleric and his associate in Dutsin-Ma town.
The victims were rushed to Dutsin-Ma Hospital for emergency treatment but were later confirmed dead, throwing the community and the cleric’s followers into mourning.
The Katsina State Police Command confirmed the death of the Islamic scholar, although details surrounding the circumstances of the attack remained sketchy as of the time of filing this report.
The identities of the attackers and their motive had yet to be established, while the police had not announced any arrests in connection with the killing.
It was also gathered that Masussuka was preparing to organise a religious gathering in Katsina State later this week before he was killed.
The late cleric had previously been involved in controversies over his religious teachings. In November 2025, the Katsina State Government announced that he would be required to defend his teachings before a committee of Islamic scholars.
However, there was no indication that the earlier controversy was connected to Monday’s attack, as the police had yet to provide further information on the killing.
