By Golok Nanmwa
JOS — Security operatives at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State, on Wednesday night repelled an attempted attack on the institution, with one suspected assailant killed during an exchange of gunfire.
It was gathered that the attackers attempted to gain access to the institute at about 11 p.m. but were resisted by security personnel on duty.
Confirming the incident in a statement on Thursday, the Head of Public Affairs at NIPSS, Dr. Osime Samuel, said the attackers engaged security operatives in a gun battle but were forced to retreat following what he described as a swift and coordinated response by security forces.
According to the statement, one of the suspected assailants was killed during the encounter, while others fled the scene.
The institute said the attackers were unable to breach its security perimeter, adding that all participants of the Senior Executive Course, staff, residents and facilities remained safe.
“NIPSS wishes to reassure participants, staff, residents and the general public that the security of lives and property within the institute remains our highest priority,” the statement said.
The institute further disclosed that security agencies had intensified efforts to apprehend those responsible for the attack, while surveillance and other security measures had been strengthened within and around the facility.
NIPSS also commended the prompt response and professionalism of security personnel involved in repelling the attack and urged members of the public to disregard unverified reports capable of causing unnecessary panic.
The incident comes weeks after another reported attempt by armed men to gain access to the institute’s premises.
