The Katsina State Police Command has launched a full-scale manhunt for suspected gunmen responsible for the killing of prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka, and his associate, Adamu Abubakar, in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of the state
According to the Command, the attack occurred at about 7:30 p.m. on Monday, October 26, 2026, when two-armed men riding a motorcycle reportedly opened fire on the victims in front of the cleric’s residence, inflicting fatal gunshot wounds.
The Command disclosed that following a distressed report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Dutsin-Ma swiftly mobilised a team of operatives to the scene and the victims were immediately evacuated to the nearest hospital, where the medical personnel confirmed them dead on arrival.
The Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Command, CP Ali Umar Fage, while reacting to the incident, ordered the immediate deployment of tactical and operational teams to intensify the search for the fleeing suspects.
The Police said investigations are already underway, with efforts being stepped up to identify, apprehend and prosecute those responsible for the deadly attack.
CP Fage expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families, friends and followers of the deceased, as well as the people of Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area, assuring residents that the Command remains committed to ensuring justice is served.
This si as the Command also appealed for public cooperation, urging anyone with useful information that could aid the investigation to come forward.
A statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, said further updates on the investigation would be communicated as developments unfold.
Recalled suspected bandits killed the prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka, and his associate in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The attack occurred at about 9 pm on Monday at the entrance to the cleric’s residence in Dutsin-Ma town, where the assailants reportedly opened fire on the two men. The victims were rushed to Dutsin-Ma Hospital for emergency medical attention but were later confirmed dead.
The killing threw the entire community into mourning, particularly followers of the cleric and residents who knew him, even as details about the identity of the attackers and the motive behind the killing remained unclear.
Close associates said the late Sheikh Masussuka had planned to organise a religious gathering in Katsina State later this week with insiders acknowledging that he had previously been involved in controversies over his religious teachings.
On November 18, 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 as of press time that the earlier controversy was connected to Monday night’s killing.
