By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Seventeen police officers died on May 8 after terrorists attacked the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State. The attackers stormed the military facility around 1:15 a.m. from several directions while officers underwent advanced counter-terrorism training. The Nigeria Police Force confirmed the incident on Saturday and vowed to track down those responsible.
Terrorists Launch Coordinated Attack in Buni Yadi
According to the police, the terrorists carried out a coordinated assault on the training institution in the early hours of Thursday.
The officers participated in specialised operational and tactical training when the gunmen invaded the facility.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placide, disclosed the development in a statement sent to journalists.
He explained that the attack began at about 0115hrs and targeted personnel undergoing advanced security training.
Nigerian Army Personnel Also Killed
The police confirmed that several Nigerian Army personnel also lost their lives during the fierce gun battle.
Soldiers reportedly engaged the attackers while trying to defend the training facility and protect officers on camp.
Security agencies have since intensified operations to apprehend those behind the deadly attack.
IGP Olatunji Disu Mourns Fallen Officers
Reacting to the incident, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, described the deceased officers as brave and patriotic.
He stated that the officers displayed exceptional commitment to national security through their participation in counter-terrorism training programmes.
The IGP also extended condolences to the families of the victims.
He assured Nigerians that the sacrifices of the slain officers would never be forgotten.
“The Nigeria Police Force salutes the courage, sacrifice, and service of the fallen officers whose dedication to duty will forever remain honoured by the nation,” the statement added.
Yobe Police Commissioner Visits Survivors
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Yobe State, Usman Kanfani Jibrin, visited the training institution on behalf of the IGP.
During the visit, he sympathised with the Commandant of the school, A.C. Enuagu, military personnel, and surviving police officers.
Jibrin praised the resilience of the surviving officers and encouraged them to complete the training programme in honour of their fallen colleagues.
Security Agencies Intensify Manhunt
The Nigeria Police Force said security agencies have strengthened efforts to identify and arrest those responsible for the attack.
Authorities also reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism and improving national security operations across the country.
