Security forces has successfully repelled an attack by suspected gunmen at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, Plateau State, neutralising one of the assailants during a fierce gun duel.
The incident reportedly occurred on Wednesday night at approximately 11:00 PM.
Security personnel intercepted the armed men as they attempted to breach the institute’s outer security perimeter.
Confirming the incident in a statement issued on Thursday, the Institute’s Head of Public Affairs, Dr Osime Samuel, said the assailants were met with “a swift and coordinated response by security forces” after engaging personnel in “a fierce exchange of gunfire”.
According to the statement, one of the attackers was neutralised during the confrontation, while several others escaped from the scene with varying degrees of injuries.
Despite the attack, the Institute stressed that its security architecture remained intact, noting that the gunmen were unable to gain entry into the premises.
It said all participants in the Senior Executive Course, members of staff, residents and the Institute’s facilities were safe and unharmed.
The statement added that security agencies had stepped up efforts to apprehend the fleeing suspects. It also disclosed that surveillance operations and other preventive security measures had been strengthened within and around the institution.
Reaffirming its commitment to safety, the Institute assured participants, employees, their families and the wider public that “the security of lives and property remained its highest priority.”
NIPSS also praised the security agencies for their prompt intervention and professionalism during the operation. It urged members of the public to ignore false reports capable of creating unnecessary fear and panic.
The latest attempted invasion comes only weeks after another attack by gunmen who similarly tried to gain access to the Institute’s premises.
