Security has been strengthened across Katsina metropolis as mourners gather to pay their last respects to Islamic scholar, Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka, ahead of his burial.
It was gathered that autopsy was not conducted on the remains of the cleric.
Police officers have been deployed to major locations across the city to maintain peace and prevent any security breach during the funeral.
At the palace of the Emir of Katsina, at least four police patrol vehicles were seen, alongside military vehicles stationed around the area.
Armed security operatives were also positioned at strategic locations across the metropolis.
Meanwhile, residents, Islamic scholars, followers and sympathisers have started arriving at the Emir’s palace to honour the late cleric.
The increased security presence comes days after Sheikh Masussuka was killed by gunmen in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The cleric was respected for his Islamic teachings and efforts to promote peaceful coexistence. His killing sparked widespread condemnation from religious leaders, residents and the Katsina State Government.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda had condemned the incident, promising that security agencies would investigate the killing and ensure that those behind it are brought to justice.
Security personnel remain on alert across the city as preparations continue for the burial, with authorities taking measures to ensure that the ceremony proceeds peacefully.
Speaking to DAILY POST on the matter, security analyst, former JTF commander, Dr. Isma'il Tanko Wudilawa said the cleric's killing has exposed gaps in community policing.
"His killing showed that he was tracked for a very long time, enough for the killers to know which house he would be at on the day of the attack.
"It is necessary for all Nigerians to make it their business to know their neighbors and any new face in the area.
"Do not allow people to know your complete routine, and do not talk to strangers about your neighbors," Wudilawa said.
Masussuka: Katsina on alert ahead burial, no autopsy conducted on slain cleric