Katsina Cleric Known for Promoting Interfaith Peace Shot Dead Outside His Home

Katsina Cleric Known for Promoting Interfaith Peace Shot Dead Outside His Home

Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka, a prominent Nigerian Muslim cleric known for promoting peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians, has been shot dead in Katsina State.

The cleric and his associate, Adamu Abubakar, were killed on Monday evening in Dutsin-Ma, according to the police.

Katsina State Police spokesperson, Abubakar Aliyu, said two armed men riding a motorcycle opened fire on the victims in front of the cleric’s residence at about 7:30 p.m.

Both men were rushed to a nearby hospital but were pronounced dead on arrival.

Following the incident, the state Commissioner of Police, Ali Umar Fage, directed tactical and operational teams to the area to track down the assailants. The police said an investigation had commenced, although the identities of the attackers and the motive for the killing remain unknown.

The cleric was reportedly scheduled to host a religious gathering in Katsina State later this week, but the event is now expected to be cancelled following his death.

The Katsina State governor reportedly described Masussuka as a figure committed to peaceful coexistence and fostering understanding among people of different religious backgrounds.

President Bola Tinubu has also condemned the killing, while Amnesty International called on the authorities to investigate the incident thoroughly and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

The killing has also brought renewed attention to reports of past disagreements between the cleric and some religious figures. However, no evidence has established any connection between those disputes and the fatal shooting.

Authorities have yet to announce any arrests in connection with the incident.

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