Global human rights organisation Amnesty International has called on the Nigerian government to halt what it described as a sectarian and heavy-handed campaign against Malam Yahya Masusska, an Islamic scholar known for his peaceful preaching.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the organisation said recent actions targeting the cleric and his school raise serious concerns about the state of religious freedom in Nigeria.

Amnesty International noted that despite the absence of any evidence linking Masusska to criminal activity or violations of the law, attempts to silence him have persisted. The group described the moves against him as part of a broader pattern of intolerance aimed at suppressing diverse religious views.

The organisation highlighted Masusska’s contributions to peacebuilding, particularly his advocacy against violent extremism and his consistent calls for dialogue within the Muslim community.

“Under Nigeria’s constitution and international law, the right to freedom of religion and thought are protected — and every person is entitled to enjoy these rights without fear or intimidation,” Amnesty International stated.

The rights group added that these protections must extend fully to Masusska, stressing that the government has a responsibility to safeguard his rights and ensure he can continue his work without harassment.

“The Nigerian authorities must protect the rights and safety of Malam Yahya Masusska, in line with the country’s human rights obligations,” it said.

Amnesty International urged the government to immediately end all forms of intimidation or harassment against the cleric, warning that continued pressure could heighten sectarian tensions and undermine Nigeria’s international human rights commitments.

Background to the Dispute

The Katsina State government earlier said it had received complaints alleging that Masusska’s preaching was contrary to “general principles of Islamic law.” Masusska, in turn, reported being threatened and insulted by members of Jama’atu Izalatul Bidi’a.

The matter was referred to the Katsina Emirate Council, headed by His Royal Highness, the Emir of Katsina, Alhaji Abdulmumini Kabir Usman. The Emir invited Masusska and other clerics to his palace, advising all scholars to refrain from preaching in ways that offend fellow Muslims.

Despite this intervention, the Katsina government said reports indicated that tensions persisted.

Governor Dikko Radda subsequently directed, through the Secretary to the Government, Abdullahi Faskari, that Masusska appear before a Committee of Ulamas to defend himself against the complaints.