President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to hunt down and prosecute the gunmen who killed Islamic scholar Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka and his associate, Adamu Abubakar, in Katsina State, intensifying federal attention on a case that has left the attackers’ identities and motive unknown.
The two men were shot dead outside Masussuka’s residence in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area on Monday evening, October 26, 2026. The assailants reportedly rode a motorcycle and fled after opening fire.
Tinubu condemned the killings on Tuesday, describing the attack as “an assault on the values of peace and sanctity of human life”.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President directed the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to reinforce the Katsina State Police Command’s ongoing search for the suspects.
“The President has directed the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to move swiftly, intensify efforts already underway by the Katsina State Police Command, and ensure the perpetrators are tracked down, apprehended, and brought to justice,” the statement said.
The President extended condolences to the victims’ families, followers, and the government and people of Katsina State. He also prayed for the repose of the deceased and comfort for those grieving their loss.
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Federal directive, local investigation
Tinubu’s intervention adds federal pressure to an investigation already initiated by the state police. The Katsina State Police Command had earlier announced a manhunt after officers responded to a distress report and took the victims to hospital, where they were pronounced dead.
Commissioner of Police Ali Umar Fage ordered tactical and operational teams to intensify the search for those responsible.
However, neither the presidential statement nor the initial police account identified any suspects or established why the two men were attacked. No arrests were announced in the reports available.
The immediate challenge for investigators is to turn the manhunt into evidence-led action. Witness statements, surveillance footage where available, and information about the attackers’ movements could help establish their identities and escape route. Authorities have not confirmed what evidence has been recovered.
Motive remains unknown
The circumstances of the shooting have prompted questions about whether Masussuka had received threats before his death and whether the attack was connected to his religious activities. Neither possibility has been established by the authorities, and the motive remains unconfirmed.
The reported use of a motorcycle may offer investigators a line of inquiry, but it does not by itself establish who carried out the attack or why.
Tinubu’s directive signals the government’s demand for accountability. Its practical significance will depend on whether federal and state security agencies coordinate effectively, identify the assailants and build a case capable of supporting prosecution.
The victims’ families and followers are now waiting for answers. Beyond official condemnations, the decisive development will be credible findings that explain the killing and bring those responsible before the law.
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