Gunmen Attack NIPSS Staff Quarters in Plateau, Kill Two Soldiers and Policeman

Three security operatives were killed on Monday night when gunmen attacked the staff quarters of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, Plateau State.

The deceased included two soldiers and a police officer who were on security duty at the time of the attack. They reportedly lost their lives during a fierce exchange of gunfire with the assailants while defending the residential area.

Confirming the incident in a statement issued on Tuesday, the Head of Public Affairs at NIPSS, Dr Osime Samuel, said a security breach occurred in the vicinity of the institute but was swiftly brought under control.

He reassured the public that all participants, staff members, residents and facilities within the institute remained safe, adding that academic and administrative activities were continuing without disruption.

“The situation was promptly contained, and normal operations have continued uninterrupted,” the statement noted.

Sources familiar with the incident disclosed that the attackers were believed to have been targeting the residences of the Acting Director of Studies, Barrister Nima Salman-Mann, and a Directing Staff member, Professor Haruna Dabin.

According to the sources, both officials had received handwritten threat letters on Saturday demanding payments of $100,000 and N15 million respectively. The threats were reportedly reported to the institute’s management before the attack occurred.

A source close to the institute said the fallen security personnel engaged the attackers in a gun battle, preventing them from gaining access to their intended targets.

While local vigilantes are said to provide daytime security within the area, soldiers and police officers are deployed at night to safeguard the staff quarters and other sensitive locations.

NIPSS said security agencies have commenced investigations into the attack to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.

The institute urged members of the public and media organisations to rely on information released through official channels and relevant security authorities.

Management also reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and welfare of staff, residents and programme participants, while commending the courage and professionalism displayed by the security operatives who responded to the attack.

The bodies of the slain officers have been deposited in a mortuary, while investigations and security operations in the area continue.