Tinubu Orders Probe As Ansaru Claims Killing Of Islamic Cleric

President Bola Tinubu has ordered an investigation into the killing of prominent Islamic preacher, Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka, and his friend, Adamu Abubakar, in Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State.

The duo were reportedly killed in a drive-by shooting by gunmen on Monday evening.

Tinubu, in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, condemned the killings, describing the attack as heinous and an assault on the values of peace and the sanctity of human life.

The president directed the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to intensify efforts to track down and arrest the perpetrators. He also urged the agencies to strengthen ongoing efforts by the Katsina State Police Command to ensure that those responsible for the killings are brought to justice.

Tinubu expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, their followers, and the government and people of Katsina State over the incident. He prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and comfort for their families and others mourning their death.

In a new development, the Ansaru militant group has reportedly claimed responsibility for the killing of the Islamic cleric, accusing him of being an infidel.

The group, which is linked to al-Qaeda, made the claim in an audio message released on Tuesday, saying it attacked them at about 8:30 p.m.

In the audio message, Ansaru accused Masussuka of opposing Islam but did not provide specific evidence to support the allegation.

The claims have not been independently verified.