Katsina Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has ordered a thorough investigation into the killing of Islamic scholar Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka and his associate, as questions persist over the motive behind the fatal shooting outside the cleric’s home in Dutsin-Ma.
The victims were reportedly attacked on Monday night, October 26, 2026, by two unidentified gunmen riding a motorcycle. The assailants allegedly opened fire outside Masussuka’s residence before fleeing.
The killing has drawn a response from the state government, with Radda describing the incident as shocking and heartbreaking. He also called on security agencies to identify those responsible and ensure they face prosecution.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, the governor extended his condolences to the bereaved family, the Islamic community and others affected by the deaths.
Radda said the late scholar was respected for promoting peaceful coexistence, religious tolerance and understanding among people of different faiths. He also noted that Masussuka’s Qur’an-based teachings opposed violent extremism and radicalisation.
The governor said, “Those behind this heinous act must be brought to justice. I urge the relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that the perpetrators face the full weight of the law.”
He prayed for Allah to forgive the deceased, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus and give his family and the Muslim community the strength to bear the loss.
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Investigation faces critical questions
The government’s directive comes as the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear. No motive has been established publicly, and the identities of the attackers have not been disclosed.
The governor’s statement did not indicate whether investigators had identified suspects, recovered evidence or established if the cleric had received threats before the attack.
These details will be important in determining whether the killing was linked to the scholar’s religious work, a personal dispute or another criminal motive. His advocacy for religious tolerance is part of the government’s description of his legacy, but it does not, by itself, establish why he was attacked.
The Katsina State Police Command has separately announced a manhunt for the assailants. Police said the victims were taken to a hospital after the shooting, where they were confirmed dead. Commissioner of Police Ali Umar Fage ordered tactical and operational teams to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible.
Radda appeals for calm
The governor called on residents to cooperate with security agencies and provide credible information that could assist the investigation. He also cautioned against actions capable of heightening tensions or disturbing public peace.
The appeal places public cooperation alongside the government’s demand for accountability. Information from witnesses and other credible sources could help investigators reconstruct the attack and trace the gunmen’s escape.
However, the key test will be whether the investigation produces identifiable suspects, establishes a motive and leads to prosecution.
Until authorities disclose further findings, the killing of Masussuka and his associate remains a case with significant unanswered questions. The government has promised justice, while residents await evidence that the perpetrators can be iden tified and brought before the law.
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