Army launches manhunt for suspected killers of Islamic scholar in Katsina

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 17 Brigade have launched a manhunt for the suspected killers of prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The development comes as President Bola Tinubu has directed the police and other security agencies to intensify efforts to track down, arrest and prosecute those responsible for the killing.

The attack occurred on Monday evening, October 26, 2026, when two armed men riding on a motorcycle reportedly opened fire on the scholar and his friend, Adamu Abubakar, in front of the cleric’s residence.

The assailants fled after the shooting, leaving both victims with fatal gunshot wounds. They were taken to a hospital, where medical personnel confirmed them dead.

Troops of the 17 Brigade, working with other security agencies, are making efforts to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects.

The General Officer Commanding, GOC, 1 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed Wase, also visited Dutsin-Ma to convey the condolences of the Chief of Army Staff to the family and followers of the deceased.

Wase urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding while security agencies investigate the killing.