The Police have launched a manhunt for the killers of prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka, and his friend, Adamu Abubakar.
Daily Trust reports that the duo were killed outside the cleric’s home in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of Katsina State on Monday evening.
In a statement issued and signed by the state’s command PPRO DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, two armed men on a motorcycle opened fire on the two men in front of the scholar’s residence, then fled.
It explained that the Divisional Police Officer for Dutsin-Ma led a team of officers to the scene after the incident was reported. Both victims were rushed to the nearest hospital, where a doctor pronounced them dead.
It further stated that the state Commissioner of Police Ali Umar Fage has ordered tactical and operational teams into the area and an investigation is underway, as police say they are intensifying efforts to track down and arrest the suspects.
The statement said the police commissioner offered condolences to the families, friends and followers of the deceased and to the people of Dutsin-Ma, and he vowed that the command ‘will not relent’ until the perpetrators are brought to justice.
Meanwhile, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has condemned the killing, assuring that those responsible would be brought to justice.
In a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, the governor expressed shock over the incident and extended his condolences to the deceased’s family, the Islamic community and others affected by the loss.
Radda described Sheikh Masussuka as a voice for peaceful coexistence and interfaith harmony, noting that the cleric was known for his Qur’an-centred teachings and opposition to violent extremism and radicalisation.
The governor said security agencies would intensify efforts to investigate the circumstances surrounding the killing, identify the perpetrators and ensure they faced the full weight of the law.
‘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 said.
Radda appealed to residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies and provide credible information that could assist the investigation.
He cautioned against actions capable of escalating tensions or undermining public peace, urging residents to allow security agencies to carry out their responsibilities.
The governor also urged the bereaved family to remain steadfast in their faith, praying that Almighty Allah would grant them the strength and patience to bear the loss.