Gunmen on Monday night attacked the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, in Plateau State, killing two soldiers and a police officer deployed to protect the institution’s staff quarters.
The victims were reportedly on duty when the attackers struck the residential area of the institute.
Confirming the incident in a statement on Tuesday, the Head of Public Affairs of NIPSS, Dr. Osime Samuel, said a security breach occurred in the vicinity of the institute but assured that the situation had been brought under control.
“The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, wishes to inform the public that a security incident occurred in the vicinity of the Institute in the early hours of today,” he said.
According to Samuel, the swift intervention of security personnel prevented further escalation, adding that there was no immediate threat to participants, staff, residents, or facilities of the institute.
“There is currently no threat to the safety of participants, staff, residents, or facilities of the Institute. Normal activities are continuing as scheduled,” he stated.
Sources, however, disclosed that the attackers allegedly targeted the residences of the Acting Director of Studies, Barrister Nima Salman-Mann, and a Directing Staff member, Professor Haruna Dabin.
The sources revealed that both officials had reportedly received handwritten threat notes pasted on their doors on Saturday, demanding payments of $100,000 and N15 million respectively. The matter was said to have been reported to the institute’s management.
A source familiar with the incident said the soldiers and police officer lost their lives during an exchange of gunfire with the attackers.
“During the day, local security personnel monitor the staff quarters, while soldiers and police officers provide security at night. It is believed the attackers came for the officials they had earlier threatened,” the source said.
NIPSS management said security agencies have commenced investigations to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack and identify those responsible.
The institute urged members of the public and the media to rely on official communications while investigations continue.
“NIPSS is working closely with the appropriate authorities and will provide verified information as soon as it becomes available. We urge members of the public and the media to rely on official communications from the Institute and relevant security agencies,” Samuel added.
The management reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and security of staff, participants, and residents, while commending the professionalism of security personnel involved in responding to the incident.
The bodies of the slain security operatives have reportedly been deposited in a mortuary as investigations continue.
