How we survived NIPSS attack – Course 48 participants

…FG orders security reinforcement

From Jude Owuamanam, Jos

Traumatised participants of Course 48 at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, have recounted their narrow escape when gunmen attacked the institution between late Monday and early Tuesday this week.

The participants, drawn from the military, police, paramilitary agencies, civil service, private sector, organised labour and civil society, escaped unhurt, although two soldiers and a police officer were killed while repelling the attack.

Speaking during Vice President Kashim Shettima’s condolence visit on Friday, two participants, Dr. Toyin Sanni and Mr. Kabir Abbah, commended the courage and professionalism of security personnel attached to the institute.

Sanni said participants were asleep when bursts of gunfire shattered the peace of the night, leaving many terrified.

“We huddled in our residences, afraid for our lives. By Tuesday morning, we were relieved that the attack had been repelled, though we sadly lost three gallant officers who made the ultimate sacrifice,” she said.

According to her, many participants received calls from worried family members urging them to leave the institute, but they remained encouraged by the bravery of their colleagues in the military and security agencies.

Abbah said security personnel were quickly reinforced by participants from the armed forces, police and paramilitary agencies, who joined efforts to repel the attackers.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has directed the reinforcement of security around NIPSS and other federal institutions in the Kuru-Vom axis.

Represented by Vice President Shettima, the President also directed the institute’s management to submit a comprehensive security strategy within 72 hours.

He announced measures, including enhanced surveillance, stronger perimeter security, improved access control and increased deployment of security personnel.

“The attack on NIPSS was not merely an assault on an institution but a brazen attack on a vital national asset,” he said.

Also, Governor Caleb Mutfwang Plateau State pledged additional support, including patrol vehicles and improved perimeter fencing.