Amnesty International has strongly condemned the brutal killing of renowned Islamic preacher Sheik Yahaya Masussuka by gunmen on motorbikes as he stepped out of his house in Dutsin Ma Katsina state, to go for usual evening preaching.
In a statement on Monday night, Amnesty called on the Nigerian authorities to immediately and effectively investigate the incident and ensure that those suspected of being responsible are brought to justice.
According to the statement, Sheik Yahaya Masussuka had consistently used his preaching to promote cooperation, peaceful coexistence, interfaith dialogue and understanding among Muslim faithful.
He was also notable for preaching against violent extremism and radicalization.
The late Islamic cleric, the statement noted faced threats to life and intimidation — all through his life.
Gunmen reportedly killed the prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh in a suspected targeted attack at his residence in Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State on Monday
Sources said the cleric was killed by armed men who attacked his home in the town late Monday night.
The circumstances surrounding the killing, including the identities of the assailants and their motive, were not immediately clear as of the time of filing this report.
Authorities had yet to issue an official statement confirming the killing or providing details of any security response.
Further details on the incident are expected as more information becomes available.