Seventeen police officers have been killed in a terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State. The attack occurred in the early hours of Friday, May 8, 2026, when insurgents launched a coordinated assault from multiple directions.
Details of the Attack
The victims were undergoing specialised operational training at the facility when the attackers struck. The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) described the incident as a tragic loss. The attack also claimed the lives of some Nigerian Army personnel. Anthony Okon Placid, the NPF spokesperson, confirmed the development in a statement on Saturday, May 16.
IGP Mourns Slain Officers
Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu expressed condolences to the families of the fallen officers. He described them as courageous and dedicated personnel who demonstrated exceptional patriotism and commitment to national security. The IGP noted that their participation in advanced counter-terrorism and tactical training programmes reflected their dedication.
Vows to Bring Perpetrators to Justice
Disu assured Nigerians that the NPF is working closely with the Armed Forces and other security agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice. He emphasised that efforts are ongoing to ensure that those responsible for the attack face the full weight of the law.
Yobe Commissioner Visits Scene
Usman Kanfani Jibrin, the Commissioner of Police for Yobe State Command, visited the institution on behalf of IGP Disu. He commiserated with the Commandant of the school, Brigadier General A.C. Enuagu, as well as officers of the Nigerian Army and surviving police personnel undergoing training. Jibrin commended the resilience and courage of the survivors and encouraged them to remain resolute in completing the training programme in honour of their fallen colleagues.
Background of Insurgency in Northeast
Nigeria's north-east geopolitical zone has long been plagued by insurgent attacks. Authorities have struggled to find an end to the scourge, with frequent attacks on military and police targets. The Nigerian armed forces continue to battle insurgents in the region.
The attack on the Army Special Forces School highlights the ongoing security challenges in Yobe State and the broader northeast region. The police statement reaffirmed that the sacrifices of the deceased officers will never be forgotten.
