Bandits k!ll Islamic cleric in Kaduna state

Suspected bandits have k!lled an Islamic cleric in Layin Danauta, Kuyello Ward, in the Birnin Gwari Local Government Area Kaduna State. Residents, who shared a gory image of the remains with Premium Times, identified the victim as Bello Abubakar.  Mr Abubakar served as an assistant Imam at the Jamaatul Izalatil Bidah Wa Iqamatus Sunnah (IZALA) mosque in the community. He was attacked and k!lled while fetching firewood in Kuyello Ward in the eastern part of Birnin Gwari on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. A resident, speaking to to the publication on the condition of anonymity, revealed that attacks occur in the nearby Kutemeshe Ward almost daily but often go unreported due to fear of victimisation. The residents said the security situation in Layin Danauta is dire, as seven other residents who were abducted by criminal elements months ago remain in captivity. The news of Mr Abubakars d3ath has devastated the local population.  Residents said he was well-regarded for his dedication to Quranic education and for leading daily congregational prayers, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. The post Bandits k!ll Islamic cleric in Kaduna state appeared first on Linda Ikeji Blog.