Suspected gunmen on Monday night attacked the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, near Jos, Plateau State, killing three security operatives in an attempted breach of Nigeria’s premier policy and research institution.
According to sources, the attackers stormed the institute at about 11:40 p.m. and opened fire, prompting an intense exchange of gunfire with security personnel stationed at the facility.
A staff member of the institute, who spoke anonymously, said the assault came without warning, forcing security operatives to respond swiftly to repel the attackers.
The source disclosed that security forces engaged the gunmen in a fierce confrontation, preventing them from gaining access to the institution. During the clash, three members of the security team were killed, including two soldiers and a police officer attached to the institute.
The staff member further noted that the prompt intervention of security personnel stopped the assailants from advancing deeper into the facility and causing more destruction.
As of the time of reporting, the motive behind the attack remained unknown.
Meanwhile, residents of Kuru and surrounding communities were thrown into panic as sustained gunfire echoed through the area for several minutes. A local resident, Bulus Haruna, said many people feared for their safety as the incident unfolded late at night.
Efforts to obtain official confirmation from the Plateau State Police Command were unsuccessful at press time. Authorities of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies also had not issued any statement regarding the attack as of the time this report was filed.
