Gunmen attacked the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, near Jos, Plateau State, in the late hours of Monday, leaving two police officers feared dead and heightening tensions in the area. The attackers reportedly arrived around 11:40 p.m., opening fire on security operatives stationed at the institute's gate before a fierce exchange ensued.
Eyewitnesses recount night of gunfire
A staff member of the institute, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the moment panic set in. “I was sleeping when I heard gunshots. I didn’t know what to make of it, but when I woke up, I discovered it was real because the gunshots had already caused commotion within the NIPSS. It turned out that the institution was under attack,” he said.
Another source confirmed that security personnel engaged the attackers, preventing them from breaching the facility further. “Thank God security was reinforced, and the attackers fled. But they succeeded in killing two persons at the gate before they ran away. A soldier and a policeman were the victims. It’s very unfortunate,” the source added.
Panic spreads as authorities launch investigation
Residents in surrounding communities reported sustained gunfire that triggered widespread panic across Kuru. A resident, Bulus Haruna, said the shooting lasted several minutes, forcing people to stay indoors. The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies later confirmed the incident, stating that the situation had been brought under control and that normal activities were ongoing.
Security agencies have since launched investigations to determine the motive behind the attack, while authorities urged the public to rely only on verified information as inquiries continue. The incident has raised concerns about security in the region, with many calling for enhanced measures to protect government institutions.
