Three security operatives were killed after armed gunmen attacked the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, Plateau State, late Monday night, security authorities have confirmed.
The attack occurred at about 11:40 p.m. when the assailants reportedly stormed the entrance of the institute and opened fire on security personnel stationed at the facility.
According to security sources, the gunmen engaged guards in a fierce exchange of gunfire as they attempted to gain access to the premises of the country’s foremost policy and leadership institution. The security operatives on duty resisted the attack, preventing the assailants from breaching the facility’s perimeter.
Despite the successful defense of the institute, three security personnel were killed during the confrontation. The casualties were identified as two soldiers and one police officer attached to the security detail of the institution.
The attack triggered panic among residents of Kuru and neighbouring communities, including Vom, as sustained gunfire echoed through the area.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the management of NIPSS confirmed the incident and expressed condolences over the loss of the security personnel.
The statement, signed by the institute’s Head of Public Affairs, Dr. Samuel Osime, assured participants, staff and residents that the situation had been brought under control and that there was no ongoing threat to lives or property within the institution.
Management further stated that academic and administrative activities at the institute would continue as scheduled, while relevant security agencies had commenced investigations to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack and identify those responsible.
The institute urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information, noting that official updates would be provided through appropriate channels as investigations progress.
Meanwhile, the Plateau State Police Command confirmed the incident and said security had been reinforced around the institute and surrounding communities to prevent further attacks.
The motive for the assault remains unclear, but the incident has renewed concerns over the security of critical national institutions in Plateau State, which has witnessed a series of violent attacks in recent years.