•National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS).
Gunmen attacked the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, near Jos, in the early hours of today, breaching the institute’s perimeter fence and exchanging gunfire with security personnel guarding the facility.
The incident reportedly occurred between midnight and 1:00 a.m. at the institute, which is widely regarded as Nigeria’s foremost policy and strategic studies centre, reports Channels TV.
A local source, who spoke to our correspondent on condition of anonymity for security reasons, said the attackers stormed the premises under the cover of darkness, damaged part of the fence and engaged security operatives before fleeing the scene.
The source claimed that two soldiers and a police officer were killed during the attack. However, security authorities have not officially confirmed the reported casualties.
“The gunmen came between 12 midnight and 1 a.m. They broke part of the institute’s fence and shot at the security personnel on duty. Two soldiers and one policeman were killed before the attackers escaped,” the source said.
The NIPSS has acknowledged that a security incident occurred around its premises.
In a statement signed by the Head of Public Affairs Department, Dr. Osime Samuel, the institute said the situation was quickly brought under control through the intervention of security personnel and relevant agencies.
“The situation was promptly brought under control through the swift response of security personnel and relevant security agencies. 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 said.
The institute noted that investigations were ongoing and said it would be premature to speculate on the nature or outcome of the incident.
NIPSS added that it is working closely with relevant security agencies and will provide verified information as investigations progress.
It also commended the security personnel involved in containing the incident and reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of participants, staff and residents.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had yet to issue an official statement on the alleged fatalities or identify those behind the attack.
