The killing of Islamic cleric Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka in Katsina State has drawn renewed attention to reports that he received threats over his religious teachings last year, although authorities have not established any link between the earlier complaints and his murder.
Masussuka was reportedly shot dead by unidentified gunmen riding a motorcycle outside his residence in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area at about 9pm on Monday. Another person was also reportedly shot during the attack.
Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda condemned the killing and called on security agencies to investigate the incident, identify those responsible and bring them to justice.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Mohammed, the governor described Masussuka as a religious leader who promoted peaceful coexistence, interfaith harmony and opposition to violent extremism.
Radda expressed condolences to the cleric’s family and the Muslim community, while urging residents to remain calm and provide credible information that could assist the investigation.
“Those behind this heinous act must be brought to justice,” the governor said.
The Katsina State Police Command confirmed the killing, but the circumstances surrounding the attack and the identities of the assailants remained unclear at the time of reporting.
Masussuka, who was originally from Bauchi State, was based in Dutsin-Ma, where he established Qur’an TV/Radio and Masussuka International School in April 2024. The institution offered both Qur’anic and conventional education.
He was known for his Qur’an-centred teachings, including his rejection of some Hadith traditions, which brought him into disagreement with other Islamic scholars. He also advocated peaceful relations between Muslims and Christians and received a Peace Ambassador award in June 2025.
In November 2025, the Katsina State Government summoned the cleric following complaints that some of his teachings contravened Islamic principles. The government also acknowledged receiving complaints from Masussuka that members of Jama’atu Izalatul Bidia were insulting him and threatening to attack him.
The dispute was referred to the Katsina Emirate Council for discussions, while Radda directed the cleric to respond to the allegations before a committee of Islamic scholars.
There is no established evidence linking those earlier disputes or reported threats to Monday’s killing.
The governor urged residents to avoid actions capable of heightening tensions as security agencies investigate the murder.
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