Unspecified number of suspected have attacked the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies(NIPSS) in Kuru, Jos, killing two soldiers and a police officer in night assault on the elite leadership institution in Plateau State.
The victims were on duty at the staff quarters of the institution when the gunmen invaded the facility.
Dr Osime Samuel, Head of Public Affairs at the institute, confirmed the incident in a statement on Tuesday, but did not give details of the casualties or circumstances.
“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.
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Samuel added that the situation was brought under control through the swift response of security personnel and “there is currently no threat to the safety of participants, staff, residents, or facilities of the Institute. Normal activities are continuing as scheduled.”
According to Daily Trust, the gunmen targeted the residences of the Acting Director of Studies, Barrister Nima Salman-Mann, and a Directing Staff, Professor Haruna Dabin.
Multiple sources said the targeted staff had on Saturday received handwritten notes pasted on their doors demanding $100,000 and N15 million each, adding that the incident was reported to management.
A source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the soldiers and police officer were killed during an exchange of gunfire with the attackers.
“During the day, local security watch the staff quarters. At night, soldiers and police are deployed to provide security in the area. It is believed that the attackers came to the houses of the staff they earlier sent notes demanding money from them,” the source said.
The management of the institution further explained that security agencies have commenced investigations to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“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.
“The Management of NIPSS remains committed to the safety and security of all members of the Institute community and appreciates the professionalism of the security personnel and agencies involved in the response, “ Dr Samuel said.
