Gunmen, late Monday night, launched an attack on the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, near Jos, Plateau State, killing three security operatives in what authorities described as a “security incident” that was swiftly contained.
The attackers reportedly stormed the nation’s foremost policy research institute at about 11:40 p.m., opening fire on security personnel stationed at the facility.
According to multiple sources, the assailants attempted to force their way towards the residential quarters housing course participants.
A staff member, who witnessed the incident, but asked not to be named, said the assault was sudden and intense.
Security operatives including soldiers and police officers engaged the gunmen in a fierce exchange to prevent them from breaching the institute.
Three security personnel were confirmed dead: two soldiers and one police officer. The slain police officer was said to be the orderly attached to a retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police residing within the institute.
“The quick response of the security team prevented the attackers from penetrating deeper into the facility,” the staff member said, noting that the motive behind the attack remained unclear.
Residents of surrounding communities were thrown into panic as sustained gunfire echoed across Kuru for several minutes.
The area has experienced repeated security threats in recent months, including persistent attacks on the nearby Federal College of Land Resources Technology (FECOLART), forcing staff there to abandon their quarters.
About a week earlier, hooded men reportedly smashed the windscreen of a NIPSS Directing Staff’s vehicle before fleeing.
In a press release, NIPSS confirmed that a “security incident” occurred in the vicinity of the institute but stressed that the situation had been brought under control.
“There is currently no threat to the safety of participants, staff, residents, or facilities of the Institute, and normal activities are continuing as scheduled,” the statement signed by Dr. Osime Samuel, Head of the Public Affairs Department, read.
The institute urged the public to rely on official communication as security agencies begin investigations into the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Yemi Kosoko
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