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KANO: Elderly cleric murdered, suspected attacker lynched by mob

2 hours ago
by Bella Ogechukwu
Kano state map

AN elderly Islamic cleric, Ladan Zubairu, was killed early yesterday at the Yusuf Garko Mosque in the Maraba Quarters area of Kano, triggering mob violence before security operatives restored calm.

The attacker, whose identity has not been officially confirmed, was chased by youths in the area shortly after the incident.

He was reportedly beaten to death, while his home was set ablaze, resulting in damage to property within the neighbourhood.

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Speaking to journalists, the victim’s son, Isa Kasim, said his father had just completed the first call to prayer at dawn and was seated inside the mosque when the assailant entered and attacked him with a weapon.

According to Kasim, members of the community quickly mobilised and tracked down the suspect, who was killed by the mob.

He added that residents later discovered a disturbing item allegedly found on the suspect.

The Kano State Police Command confirmed the incident, describing it as a “heinous crime.”

In a statement, the police said Ladan Zubairu, a resident of the area, was attacked and killed by an unknown assailant yesterday, December 15, 2025.

Police spokespersons noted that eyewitness accounts confirmed the suspect was lynched by an angry crowd and that his residence was set on fire. Security personnel were subsequently deployed to the area to restore order.

The command also disclosed that both the victim and the suspect were taken to the Mohammed Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital in Kano, where they were certified dead. Their bodies are awaiting autopsy.

The Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, ordered a full investigation into the incident, directing officers to ensure that all those involved are brought to justice.

The police appealed to residents to remain calm and assist with ongoing investigations, assuring the public that all information provided would be treated confidentially.

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