The cleric was killed on Monday, October 26, 2026, alongside a companion identified by the police as Adamu Abubakar. According to the Katsina State Police Command, the victims were attacked by armed men riding on a motorcycle in front of Masussuka’s residence.

The victims were rushed to a nearby hospital but were pronounced dead by a medical doctor. Police said an investigation had commenced, while tactical and operational teams had been deployed to track down the fleeing suspects.

Amnesty International described the killing as disturbing and urged Nigerian authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and prosecute anyone found responsible.

The human rights organisation said Masussuka used his preaching to promote cooperation, peaceful coexistence, interfaith dialogue and understanding. It also noted his opposition to violent extremism and radicalisation, adding that he had faced threats and intimidation during his lifetime.

The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria also condemned the killing, describing it as a serious loss to the region and an attack on scholarship, truth and the values the late cleric represented.

In a statement signed by its president, Comrade Isah Abubakar, the council called on the Federal Government and the Katsina State Government to ensure an independent and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing.

The NYCN demanded that investigators identify and prosecute all those involved, including anyone suspected of planning, financing or facilitating the attack. It warned that the case must not be allowed to become another unresolved killing.

The council also criticised what it described as inadequate responses to violent crimes, insisting that authorities must demonstrate a genuine commitment to protecting citizens and ending impunity.

Abubakar said Northern youths would closely monitor developments in the investigation, stressing the need for transparency and accountability throughout the process.

The killing has renewed concerns about the safety of religious leaders and other community figures in parts of northern Nigeria, where insecurity remains a major challenge.

Although the police have confirmed the deaths and announced the commencement of an investigation, the identities of the attackers and their motive had not been publicly established in the reports reviewed.

Amnesty International and the NYCN have called for justice for the deceased, while the police have assured the public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend those responsible.

Reporting by TalkNaijaMedia