Security has been reinforced across Katsina metropolis ahead of the burial of Islamic scholar, Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka, following his killing by gunmen in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area.

Police officers and other security personnel have been deployed to strategic locations across the city to maintain order and prevent possible security breaches during the funeral.

At the palace of the Emir of Katsina, at least four police patrol vehicles and military vehicles were seen, while armed operatives were stationed at other key locations.

Meanwhile, Islamic scholars, followers, residents and sympathisers have begun arriving at the Emir’s palace to pay their last respects to the late cleric. Reports indicate that no autopsy was conducted on his remains.

Masussuka’s killing sparked widespread condemnation from religious leaders, residents and the Katsina State Government. Governor Dikko Umaru Radda condemned the attack and promised that security agencies would investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice.

Speaking on the killing, security analyst and former Joint Task Force commander, Dr Isma’il Tanko Wudilawa, said the incident exposed weaknesses in community policing.

He alleged that the attackers had monitored the cleric’s movements for an extended period, enabling them to know where he would be on the day of the attack.

Wudilawa urged residents to remain vigilant, know their neighbours and report unfamiliar faces in their communities. He also advised people against disclosing their daily routines or sharing sensitive information about their neighbours with strangers.