Suspected gunmen on Monday night attacked the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS, in Kuru, near Jos, Plateau State, in an attempt to gain access to the residential quarters housing participants of the institute’s ongoing course.
The attackers reportedly stormed the facility at about 11:00 p.m. and attempted to breach its perimeter security. However, security personnel on duty repelled the assault, preventing the intruders from reaching the participants’ wing.
Reports indicated that a police officer attached to a retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police and two soldiers were killed during the exchange of gunfire.
Confirming the incident, the Head of Public Affairs of NIPSS, Dr. Osime Samuel, said 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,” Samuel said in a statement.
The spokesperson, however, did not confirm or deny reports of casualties arising from the attack.
He urged the public to avoid speculation, noting that it would be premature to comment on the nature, scope or outcome of the incident.
Samuel also advised the media and members of the public to rely only on official information from relevant authorities.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had yet to disclose the motive behind the attack. Security has since been reinforced around the institute, while investigations and manhunt operations are ongoing.
