Controversial Islamic cleric shot dead in northern Nigeria

What the report says

BBC Africa reports that Yahaya Masussuka, a controversial Islamic cleric in northern Nigeria, was shot dead outside his home in Dutsin-Ma, Katsina state, on Monday evening. According to sources cited by the broadcaster, two gunmen arrived on a motorcycle and opened fire while he was seeing off visitors. Masussuka, 47, and one of the guests were taken to hospital but later pronounced dead, police said.

The article says the motive has not been established, though Masussuka had previously received threats online. He was known for posting videos that rejected some mainstream Islamic teachings, including beliefs about what happens after death. BBC Africa says he based his preaching mainly on the Quran, questioned some hadith interpretations, and had previously spent nine months in jail after mocking respected scholars over religious teachings.

Masussuka had a long public profile as a preacher, beginning religious instruction in Quranic schools at age 13 before later studying at Al-Azhar University in Egypt and in Oman. He also ran a studio at home to produce social media content for followers. The BBC says he had spoken against violent extremism and encouraged dialogue between Muslims and Christians in a country marked by recurring religious and ethnic violence.

Background noted by the broadcaster includes that he was awarded a peace prize last year and that several other prominent Muslim preachers have been killed in northern Nigeria over the past two decades, including some targeted by Boko Haram.