NIPSS Confirms Attack After Reports of Three Security Personnel Dead in Kuru
The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, has confirmed a security incident in the vicinity of its campus following reports of an armed attack near Nigeria’s premier policy and leadership institution late Monday night.
Sources familiar with the incident alleged that suspected gunmen launched an attack at about 11:40 p.m., triggering an exchange of gunfire with security personnel deployed around the area.
Unconfirmed reports indicated that three security operatives — two soldiers and a police officer — were killed during the confrontation. The attackers were reportedly repelled before they could gain access to sensitive areas of the institute.
A staff member of the institute, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that a security breach occurred around the facility, while residents of neighbouring Kuru communities reported hearing sustained gunfire that caused panic among residents.
The motive behind the attack had not been established as of the time of filing this report.
However, in an official statement issued on Tuesday, NIPSS confirmed that a security incident occurred near the institute but assured participants, staff, residents and stakeholders that the situation had been brought under control.
The statement, signed by the Head of Public Affairs Department and institute spokesperson, Dr. Samuel Osime, said the prompt intervention of security personnel and relevant security agencies prevented any threat to the institute’s operations.
“A security incident occurred in the vicinity of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru. The situation was promptly brought under control through the swift response of security personnel and relevant security agencies,” the statement said.
Dr. Osime stressed that there was currently no threat to participants of the Senior Executive Course, staff members, residents or facilities of the institute.
“There is currently no threat to the safety of participants, staff, residents, or facilities of the Institute, and normal activities are continuing as scheduled,” he added.
The NIPSS spokesman disclosed that security agencies had commenced investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
According to him, it would be premature to draw conclusions or speculate on details circulating on social media and other unofficial channels while investigations remain ongoing.
“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,” he said.
The institute assured the public that it is working closely with security agencies and would provide verified information as soon as it becomes available.
NIPSS also urged journalists and members of the public to rely on official communications from the institute and relevant security authorities for accurate updates.
“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 added.
NIPSS, located in Kuru near Jos, Plateau State, is Nigeria’s foremost policy think tank and leadership training institution, responsible for grooming senior public officials, military officers, private sector leaders and policymakers for strategic national assignments.
Further details on the incident are expected as investigations progress.
By TimesNG