GOC 1 Division Visits Katsina to Condole Family of Slain Islamic Scholar
By: Zagazola Makama
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 1, Joint Task Force (North West), Operation Fansan Yamma, Maj.-Gen. ASM Wase, has visited Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of Katsina State to condole with the family, students and associates of the late Islamic scholar, Sheikh Yahaya Masusuka, who was killed by suspected assailants.
The visit followed the unfortunate killing of the prominent Islamic scholar, which has raised concerns among residents and members of the religious community.
During the visit on October 27, 2026, the GOC expressed condolences to the family, well-wishers and students of the deceased, assuring them of the Nigerian Army's commitment to ensuring that those responsible for the killing are apprehended.
Wase also presented a condolence donation of ₦500,000 on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) to support the bereaved family.
He urged the students and members of the community to remain calm, assuring them that the Nigerian Army and other security agencies were determined to track down and arrest the perpetrators.
The GOC further stated that troops of 17 Brigade had been fully deployed in the area in collaboration with other security agencies to sustain security operations and prevent further attacks.
Addressing concerns over insecurity in the area, particularly those raised by the Chairman of the House Committee on Army, Hon. Kurfi, the GOC confirmed the existence of a Forward Operating Base (FOB) at Kurfi.
He disclosed that the FOB was co-located with the Civilian Guard Support System (CGSS) at Kurfi and directed the Commander to intensify patrol operations across the general area to reassure residents and strengthen security.
The Army said Dutsin-Ma remained peaceful, with normalcy maintained following the visit and ongoing security deployments.
