Esther Oseyiomon
The African Centre for Security, Governance and Development has called for a thorough and impartial investigation into the killing of Islamic preacher, Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka, and his associate in Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State, urging security agencies to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The Centre made the call in a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, October 27, following the reported killing of the cleric and his associate on Monday, October 26. It expressed condolences to the bereaved families and the people of Katsina State, condemning the incident as an unlawful act of violence.
The organisation urged the Inspector-General of Police, the Katsina State Police Command, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the killing, identify the perpetrators and ensure their prosecution in accordance with the law.
It warned that the killing of religious leaders could heighten public fear, undermine confidence in security institutions and threaten peaceful coexistence if not addressed transparently. The Centre cautioned against speculation about the perpetrators or their motives, insisting that conclusions must be based on credible evidence.
The organisation recalled the killings of prominent Islamic scholars, including Sheikh Ja’afar Mahmud Adam in Kano in April 2007, Sheikh Umar Hamza Dan-Maishiyya in Sokoto in July 2007 and Sheikh Muhammad Auwal Albani Zaria in Kaduna State in February 2014, stressing the need to protect religious leaders and ensure accountability for violent crimes.
With Nigeria approaching the 2027 general election cycle, the Centre called on security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, threat assessments, preventive policing and community engagement to identify emerging risks and prevent further attacks.
It also urged religious leaders, political actors, civil society organisations and members of the public to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information and refrain from retaliatory actions. The organisation further advocated stronger community-based early warning systems and improved cooperation between security agencies and local communities.
The Centre reiterated that justice must be pursued through lawful processes, with respect for human rights and due process. It urged authorities to ensure a credible investigation while calling on political, religious and community leaders to promote dialogue, accountability and peaceful coexistence as the country prepares for the 2027 elections.