African Centre Demands Probe into Killing of Katsina Cleric

African Centre Demands Probe into Killing of Katsina Cleric

By: Michael Mike

The African Centre for Security, Governance and Development has called for an impartial investigation into the killing of Islamic preacher, Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka, and his associate in Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State, warning that failure to bring the perpetrators to justice could heighten public fear and undermine confidence in security agencies.

The Centre, in a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, condemned the killings, which reportedly occurred on Monday, October 26, and urged security agencies to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and ensure their prosecution.

It specifically called on the Inspector-General of Police, the Katsina State Police Command, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the attack.

The organisation described the killing as an unlawful act of violence, expressing condolences to the bereaved families and the people of Katsina State.

It warned that attacks on religious leaders could threaten peaceful coexistence and deepen public anxiety, particularly if investigations failed to produce credible answers.

The Centre, however, cautioned against speculation about the identities of the perpetrators or their motives, insisting that conclusions must be based on credible evidence and established through due process.

It cited 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, as reminders of the need to protect religious leaders and ensure accountability for violent crimes.

Against the backdrop of preparations for the 2027 general elections, the organisation urged security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, threat assessments, preventive policing and community engagement to identify emerging security risks and forestall further attacks.

It also called on religious leaders, political actors, civil society organisations and members of the public to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information and reject any attempt at retaliation.

The Centre advocated stronger community-based early warning systems and closer cooperation between security agencies and local communities, arguing that timely information sharing could help prevent attacks and improve responses to emerging threats.

It reiterated that justice must be pursued through lawful processes that respect human rights and due process, urging political, religious and community leaders to promote dialogue, accountability and peaceful coexistence.

African Centre Demands Probe into Killing of Katsina Cleric