The wave of violent criminality across Nigeria has taken yet another dark turn as Sheikh Mustapha Aliyu Unguwar Mai Kawo, a revered Islamic scholar and leader of the Munazzamatul Fityanul Islam group in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State, has been brutally murdered by bandits after nearly three weeks in captivity.
The cleric was abducted on Saturday, April 12, 2025, when armed men stormed Gidan Kaji village, shooting sporadically and instilling terror among residents. Eyewitnesses described the invasion as “military-style,” as the assailants overpowered local security outfits and whisked Sheikh Mai Kawo away on motorcycles into the nearby forest.
The news of his death was confirmed on Friday, May 2, by security analyst Bakatsine, who shared the tragic development via social media, stating:
“SAD NEWS: Bandits have killed Sheikh Mustapha Aliyu Unguwar Mai Kawo, a respected Islamic scholar & leader of Munazzamatul Fityanul Islam in Kankara LGA, Katsina State, after nearly 3 weeks in captivity.”
Sources close to the family disclosed that negotiations had been ongoing, with the bandits allegedly demanding a ransom of several million naira. However, it remains unclear whether any ransom was paid before the killing.
The news has sent shockwaves throughout Katsina and Northern Nigeria, where Sheikh Mai Kawo was widely known for his Islamic teachings, peace advocacy, and mentoring of youths in religious studies.
A Region Under Siege
This latest killing underscores the deteriorating security situation in Katsina State and other parts of the Northwest, where armed bandits continue to wreak havoc—kidnapping, extorting, and killing civilians with little resistance. The killing of a high-profile religious figure is likely to further erode public confidence in the government's ability to guarantee safety.
Community leaders and religious associations have condemned the killing in strong terms, calling on both the state and federal governments to take urgent action.
Calls for Justice
In a brief statement, a spokesperson for the Jama'atu Nasril Islam (JNI) described the murder as a “clear act of terrorism” and demanded that the perpetrators be brought to justice swiftly.
Meanwhile, residents of Kankara have staged silent protests, mourning the scholar’s death and urging the military and police to increase patrols and presence in the vulnerable areas of the state.
No Official Response Yet
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Katsina State Police Command nor the Nigerian military had issued an official statement on the incident.
Sheikh Mustapha Aliyu is survived by his wife, children, and hundreds of students and followers. His burial, conducted under tight security, took place in his hometown on Saturday, May 3, in accordance with Islamic rites.
