Seventeen Nigerian police officers have been killed following a coordinated terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The assault, which occurred in the early hours of May 8, 2026, targeted the institution where the officers were undergoing advanced operational and counter-terrorism training.
According to a statement released on Saturday by Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the terrorists launched a simultaneous assault on the facility from multiple directions at approximately 1:15 a.m. Several Nigerian Army personnel also lost their lives while courageously repelling the attack alongside the police trainees.
Reacting to the incident, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, praising the bravery of the personnel who paid the supreme price.
“These fallen officers were courageous and dedicated personnel who demonstrated exceptional patriotism and commitment to national security through their participation in advanced counter-terrorism and tactical training programmes,” IGP Disu said. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, adding, “The sacrifices of these deceased officers will never be forgotten.”
In a show of solidarity, the Commissioner of Police for the Yobe State Command, CP Usman Kanfani Jibrin, visited the training institution on behalf of the Inspector-General. During the visit, he commiserated with the Commandant of the School, Brigadier General A.C. Enuagu, as well as army officers and the surviving police trainees.
“I commend the resilience and courage of the surviving officers,” CP Jibrin stated during his address at the facility. “I encourage you all to remain resolute in completing this training programme in honour of your fallen colleagues.”
The police high command has vowed that the attack will not go unpunished. IGP Disu assured the public that the Nigeria Police Force is working closely with the Armed Forces and other security agencies to track down the attackers.
“We will sustain ongoing efforts to bring the perpetrators of this attack to justice,” the IGP stated, reaffirming that the nation will forever honour the dedication, sacrifice, and service of the fallen heroes.
