The African Centre for Security, Governance and Development has called for an impartial and transparent investigation into the killing of Islamic preacher, Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka, and his associate in Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State.
The Centre warned that failure to identify and prosecute those responsible could heighten public fear and erode confidence in security agencies.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, the organisation condemned the killings, reportedly carried out on Monday, October 26, and urged authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
It specifically called on the Inspector-General of Police, the Katsina State Police Command, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that those found culpable are brought to justice.
Describing the killings as an unlawful act of violence, the Centre extended its condolences to the bereaved families and the people of Katsina State.
It cautioned that attacks on religious leaders could threaten peaceful coexistence and deepen public anxiety, particularly where investigations fail to produce credible answers.
The organisation, however, urged the public to avoid speculation about the identities of the perpetrators or their motives, stressing that conclusions must be based on credible evidence and established through due process.
The Centre 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.
It said the incidents underscored the need to strengthen the protection of religious leaders and ensure accountability for violent crimes.
With preparations for the 2027 general elections underway, the organisation urged security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering, threat assessments, preventive policing and community engagement to identify emerging security threats and prevent further attacks.
It also appealed to religious leaders, political actors, civil society organisations and members of the public to remain calm, refrain from circulating unverified information and reject any attempts at retaliation.
The Centre further advocated stronger community-based early warning systems and improved collaboration between security agencies and local communities, noting that timely information sharing could help prevent attacks and strengthen responses to emerging security challenges.
It reiterated that justice must be pursued through lawful processes that uphold human rights and due process, while urging political, religious and community leaders to promote dialogue, accountability and peaceful coexistence.
