The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the death of 17 police officers following a terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
According to a statement issued by Anthony Okon Placid, the attack occurred in the early hours of May 8, 2026, when terrorists reportedly launched a coordinated assault on the military facility from multiple directions at about 1:15 a.m.
The statement explained that the slain officers were undergoing specialised operational training at the institution before the attack happened.
The police also disclosed that several personnel of the Nigerian Army lost their lives while attempting to repel the terrorists during the assault.
Reacting to the development, Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu described the deceased officers as courageous personnel who demonstrated patriotism and dedication to national security through their participation in advanced counter-terrorism training.
The IGP extended condolences to the families of the fallen officers and assured them that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.
Meanwhile, Usman Kanfani Jibrin reportedly visited the training institution on behalf of the police leadership to commiserate with the Commandant of the school, A.C. Enuagu, alongside army personnel and surviving police officers.
During the visit, the commissioner praised the resilience and bravery of officers who survived the attack and encouraged them to continue the training programme in honour of their fallen colleagues.
The Nigeria Police Force also assured Nigerians that security agencies would continue collaborating to track down and bring those responsible for the attack to justice.
The tragic incident has once again highlighted ongoing security challenges in parts of northeastern Nigeria where military and security formations continue to face attacks from insurgent groups.
