President Bola Tinubu has condemned the killing of prominent Islamic preacher, Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka, and his friend, Adamu Abubakar, in Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State, directing security agencies to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
The duo were 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, described the killings as heinous and an assault on the values of peace and the sanctity of human life.
“The President, who was deeply saddened by the news of the killing, described the act as heinous and an assault on the values of peace and sanctity of human life,” the statement partly read.
The President extended his condolences to the families of the deceased, their followers and the government and people of Katsina State over the incident.
Tinubu also directed the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible for the killings.
“The President has directed the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to move swiftly, intensify efforts already underway by the Katsina State Police Command, and ensure the perpetrators are tracked down, apprehended, and brought to justice,” the statement added.
The President prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and comfort for their families, followers and others mourning their deaths.
The killing comes amid security concerns in Katsina State and other parts of the North-West, where armed groups have carried out attacks, kidnappings and killings in several communities.
However, the statement did not provide further details about the circumstances surrounding Monday’s shooting or disclose whether any suspects had been arrested.