Dutsin-Ma, Katsina — Prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Yayaha Mallam Masussuka and friend Mallam Adamu Abubakar were shot dead by unidentified gunmen on Monday night, October 26, 2026.
According to the police and family accounts, the attack occured around 7:30p.m at the entrance to the cleric’c residence in Dutsin-Ma, Kattsina State.
Sources said the assailants, who arrived on a motorcycle, opened fire shortly after the cleric had met with visitors. The victims were rushed to Dutsin-Ma Hospital but was later confirmed dead.
The Katsina Police Command has confirmed the deaths of Sheikh Masussuka and Adamu Abubakar following the attack by suspected gunmen.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) DSP Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, said the Divisional Police Officer in Dutsin-Ma promptly led a team of police operatives to the scene after receiving information about the incident.
The Commissioner of Police in Katsina State, CP Ali Umar-Fage, has reportedly ordered the deployment of tactical and operational teams to track down the fleeing suspects.
The police command disclosed that investigations had commenced, with efforts being intensified to identify, apprehend and prosecute those responsible for the killings.
As of Tuesday, October 27, available reports had not announced any arrests, while the identities of the attackers and their possible motive remained unclear.
Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka was widely known for his Qur’an-centred teachings and advocacy for peaceful coexistence, interfaith understanding and cooperation among communities.
He was also a prominent and, at times, controversial figure in Islamic religious circles because of his teachings and religious interpretations.
In April 2024, reports indicated that the cleric had established Qur’an Tv/Radio in Dustin-Ma to promote Islamic teachings.
He was also associated with the establishment of Masussuka International School, which provided opportunities for students to receive both Qur’anic and Western education.
His death has therefore attracted attention beyond his immediate community, particularly among his followers and those familiar with his religious activities.
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has expressed sadness over the killing, describing the late Sheikh Masussuka as a voice for peaceful coexistence and interfaith harmony.
According to a statement attributed to the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim kaula Mohammed, the governor extended his condolences to the deceased cleric’s family, associates, followers and the wider Muslim community.
Governor Radda called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing and urged security agencies to ensure that those responsible were brought to justice.
He also appealed to residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies and provide credible information that could assist investigators. The circumstances surrounding the killing, including whether it was connected to his religious activities or other factors, have not been officially established.
The killing also adds to to continuing security concerns in Katsina State and other parts of Nigeria’s North-West, where communities have faced attacks by armed groups.
The police assured the public that efforts are underway to apprehend the perpetrators.
The killing of Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka and his associate has left their families, followers and Dutsin-Ma community mourning, while attention remains focused on the authorities’ efforts to bring those responsible to justice.
-9News Nigeria.
