NIPSS Probes Deadly Security Breach by Gunmen on Staff Quarters, Vows to Fish Out Perpetrators

The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, Plateau State, has reacted to the attack on the institution by gunmen who invaded the staff quarters on Monday night, killing two soldiers and a police officer during a fierce exchange of gunfire.

NIPSS Head of Public Affairs, Dr. Osime Samuel, in a statement, on Tuesday, said the attack occurred in the vicinity of the institute but was swiftly contained by security personnel.He assured that participants, staff members, residents, and facilities within the institute remained safe, adding that normal activities have continued without disruption.

Sources familiar with the incident disclosed that the assailants were believed to have targeted 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 ₦15 million respectively. The threats were reportedly reported to the institute’s management before the attack.

The slain security operatives were said to have been killed while engaging the attackers in a gun battle. While local vigilantes provide daytime security in the area, soldiers and police officers are deployed at night to safeguard the staff quarters.

NIPSS however stated that security agencies have commenced investigations to unravel the circumstances surrounding the attack and identify those responsible.

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The institute also urged the public and media organisations to rely on verified information from NIPSS and relevant security agencies.

Reaffirming its commitment to the safety and security of its community, the management commended the bravery and professionalism displayed by the security personnel who responded to the attack.

The bodies of the deceased security operatives have been deposited in a mortuary, while investigations continue.