Katsina Officials Grill Cleric Masussuka Amid Rising Concern Over His Teachings

The Katsina State Government has invited an Islamic cleric Yahaya Masussuka, for questioning over allegations that his routine teachings and sermons contravene the established principles of Islamic law.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Faskari, through his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Almu-Gafai, in Katsina.

According to the statement, the government had earlier received several reports alleging that Masussuka’s religious messages and guidance did not align with recognised Islamic legal standards.

The authorities said the complaints raised concerns about the potential impact of such teachings on public order and religious harmony within the state.

“The government equally received another complaint from the side of Masussuka, that members of Jama’atu Izalatul Bidia are insulting and threatening to attack him,” the statement added.

He noted that the matter had escalated into mutual accusations between the cleric and members of the Islamic group.

In an effort to resolve the dispute and prevent further tension, the state government referred the issue to the Katsina Emirate Council.

Both parties were subsequently summoned for discussions to allow the Council to examine the claims and counterclaims and to advise on the appropriate steps to restore calm.

The statement further noted that “standards and guidelines will be set out, and whoever contravenes, the government will take appropriate action on such individuals.”

He emphasised that the measures would be aimed at ensuring that public religious teachings were conducted responsibly and in line with accepted norms.

The state government urged the public to remain patient, avoid unnecessary speculation, and cooperate fully with authorities as the issue was being handled with due diligence and fairness.