Gunmen attacked the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, on Monday night, killing two soldiers and a police officer.
The security personnel were on duty at the institute’s staff quarters when the attack happened.
Confirming the incident on Tuesday, Head of Public Affairs, Dr Osime Samuel, said: “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 added that security operatives quickly brought the situation under control and said “there is currently no threat to the safety of participants, staff, residents, or facilities of the Institute. Normal activities are continuing as scheduled.”
However, Daily Trust gathered that the attackers targeted the homes of the Acting Director of Studies, Barrister Nima Salman-Mann, and a Directing Staff member, Professor Haruna Dabin.
Sources said both officials had received handwritten notes pasted on their doors on Saturday, demanding $100,000 and N15 million each. The matter was reportedly brought to the attention of management.
A source, who spoke anonymously, said the soldiers and police officer were killed during a gun battle 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 institute said security agencies have begun investigations into 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.
The bodies of the slain security personnel have been deposited at the mortuary.
