By Uzair Adam
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has announced the death of 17 of its personnel following a terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of May 8, 2026, claimed the lives of the officers who were undergoing specialised operational training at the facility.
The statement was signed by DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the Force Public Relations Officer at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, who conveyed the official position of the police on the tragic incident.
According to the statement, the terrorists launched a coordinated assault on the training institution from multiple directions at about 1:15 a.m., overwhelming the facility.
Several personnel of the Nigerian Army were also reported killed while bravely repelling the attack.
Reacting to the incident, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, described the fallen officers as courageous and dedicated, noting that they demonstrated exceptional patriotism through their participation in advanced counter-terrorism and tactical training programmes.
He said the Force deeply mourns their loss and stands in solidarity with their families.
“Their sacrifices will never be forgotten,” the IGP said, while extending heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families on behalf of the entire police force.
In a show of support, the Commissioner of Police in Yobe State, Usman Kanfani Jibrin, visited the training school on behalf of the IGP.
During the visit, he commiserated with the Commandant of the institution, A. C. Enuagu, as well as officers of the Nigerian Army and surviving police personnel.
Jibrin praised the resilience of the surviving officers and urged them to remain resolute in completing their training programme in honour of their fallen colleagues, noting that their commitment would serve as a tribute to those who lost their lives.
The police further assured Nigerians that it is working closely with the Armed Forces and other security agencies to bring those responsible for the attack to justice.
The Force reiterated its commitment to national security, pledging that the courage and service of the fallen officers would continue to be honoured.
