A tragic security incident at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, near Jos, Plateau State, has resulted in the deaths of two individuals, including a police officer. The attack, which occurred late Monday night, involved gunmen who engaged security personnel in a fierce gun battle.
Details of the Attack
According to a staff member who spoke on condition of anonymity, the assault began around 11:40 p.m. when armed men opened fire on security guards at the institute's gate. The source recounted hearing gunshots and realizing the institution was under attack. Security personnel mounted a resistance, preventing the attackers from entering the facility. However, the gunmen succeeded in killing two people at the gate before fleeing. The victims were identified as a soldier and a policeman.
Institute Confirms Incident
In a statement released on Tuesday, NIPSS confirmed that a security incident occurred near its premises in the early hours of the day. The statement, signed by the Head of Public Affairs Department, Osime Samuel, noted that the situation was promptly brought under control through the swift response of security personnel and relevant agencies. It assured that there is currently no threat to the safety of participants, staff, residents, or facilities, and normal activities continue as scheduled.
Investigation Underway
While the institute did not officially announce casualties, the staff member confirmed the deaths. NIPSS stated that security agencies have commenced investigations and urged the public to rely on verified information from official sources. The institute is working closely with authorities and will provide updates as information becomes available.
Rising Insecurity in Plateau State
This attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents in Plateau State. On June 15, troops of Operation Enduring Peace arrested a dismissed police inspector, Danjuma Yusuf, in Riyom Local Government Area for alleged involvement in interstate arms trafficking. The Nigerian Army recovered 167 rounds of ammunition and locally fabricated pistols from the suspect. Earlier, on June 11, three people were killed in separate attacks in Riyom LGA. On June 8, gunmen attacked Gwon-Ajang village in Barkin Ladi LGA, killing eight and injuring ten during a birthday celebration. These incidents follow a midnight attack on May 9 in Ngbra-Zongo village, Bassa LGA, where at least 12 people, including pregnant women and children, were killed.
The recurring attacks have raised concerns about insecurity in Plateau State despite ongoing security operations. Efforts to obtain comments from the Plateau State Police Command were unsuccessful, as calls and messages to Police Public Relations Officer Alfred Alabo went unanswered.
