Three security operatives lost their lives when gunmen launched an attack on the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, near Jos, Plateau State. The assailants attempted to breach the country’s foremost policy institution but were met with resistance from security personnel on duty.
Details of the Attack
According to sources close to the institute, the attackers stormed the facility at approximately 11:40 p.m. and opened fire, triggering a fierce exchange of gunfire with security operatives. A staff member who spoke on condition of anonymity confirmed that the assault was unexpected and that security forces engaged the gunmen in a desperate bid to prevent them from gaining access to the institute.
The attack claimed the lives of three security personnel: two soldiers and a police officer attached to the institute’s security detail. The source added that the swift intervention of other security forces in the area prevented the attackers from penetrating deeper into the facility and causing further damage. The motive for the attack remained unclear at the time of filing this report.
Community Reaction
A resident of Kuru in Jos South Local Council, Mr Bulus Haruna, said residents of neighbouring communities were thrown into panic by the sound of sustained gunfire that lasted several minutes. The incident has heightened security concerns in the area.
Official Confirmation
Confirming the incident in a statement, the spokesperson for the Plateau State Police Command, SP Alfred Alabo, said it occurred in the early hours of the day and involved security personnel on duty at NIPSS, Kuru. He confirmed that three security personnel lost their lives during the incident. Alabo added that the Commissioner of Police, Mr Bassey Ewah, had deployed security reinforcements and intensified patrols in the area.
“The situation is under control and normal activities have resumed. Investigation is ongoing. The command urges members of the public to remain calm and go about their lawful businesses. Further updates will be communicated in due course,” he said.
Response from Security Agencies
Efforts to obtain confirmation from the spokesperson for Operation Enduring Peace, Lt Col Victor Olukoya, were unsuccessful as calls to his phone did not connect at the time of filing this report. Similarly, authorities of NIPSS did not respond to requests for comments.
NIPSS Statement
However, in a statement, the institute’s Head of Public Affairs Department, Dr Osime Samuel, confirmed that a security incident occurred near the institute in the early hours of the day. “The situation was promptly brought under control through the swift response of security personnel and relevant security agencies. There is currently no threat to the safety of participants, staff, residents, or facilities of the Institute, and normal activities are continuing as scheduled.
“Security agencies have commenced investigations to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. As investigations are ongoing, it would be premature to speculate on the nature, scope, or outcome of the event. The Institute is therefore unable to confirm details currently circulating on social media and other unofficial platforms.
“NIPSS is working closely with the appropriate authorities and will provide verified information as soon as it becomes available. We urge members of the public and the media to rely on official communications from the Institute and relevant security agencies.
“The Management of NIPSS remains committed to the safety and security of all members of the Institute community and appreciates the professionalism of the security personnel and agencies involved in the response,” the statement said.
