By Ayo Kehinde
The Nigerian Police Force has announced the death of 17 police officers following a deadly terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
A statement issued on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placide, stated that the tragic incident occurred in the early hours of May 8, 2026, when terrorists reportedly launched a coordinated assault on the military training facility from multiple directions at about 1:15am.
The slain officers were undergoing specialised operational training at the institution at the time of the attack.
The police authorities disclosed that the officers paid the supreme sacrifice while serving the nation, adding that several personnel of the Nigerian Army also lost their lives during fierce efforts to repel the attackers.
Reacting to the development, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, described the fallen officers as courageous and dedicated personnel who demonstrated uncommon patriotism and commitment to national security.
The IGP noted that the officers had volunteered for advanced counter-terrorism and tactical training programmes aimed at strengthening national security operations against insurgency and terrorism.
He conveyed the condolences of the entire police force to the bereaved families, assuring them that the sacrifices of the deceased officers would never be forgotten.
“The officers displayed exceptional courage and dedication to duty in the service of the nation. Their sacrifice will continue to inspire the Nigeria Police Force and the country as a whole,” the statement noted.
As part of efforts to boost morale and show solidarity with affected personnel, the Commissioner of Police in Yobe State, Usman Kanfani Jibrin, visited the training institution on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police.
During the visit, the police commissioner commiserated with the Commandant of the school, A.C. Enuagu, officers of the Nigerian Army, and surviving police officers receiving training at the facility.
He praised the resilience and bravery of the surviving personnel and encouraged them to remain steadfast in completing the training programme in honour of their fallen colleagues.
The Nigeria Police Force further assured Nigerians that it would continue working closely with the armed forces and other security agencies to track down and bring the perpetrators of the attack to justice.
The Force reiterated its commitment to sustaining ongoing counter-terrorism operations across the country while honouring the courage, sacrifice, and service of the fallen officers.
