By Peace Udugba
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has announced 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 on May 16, 2026, by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placide, the officers were killed in the early hours of May 8, 2026, while undergoing specialised operational training at the institution.
The statement disclosed that the terrorists launched a coordinated attack on the facility from multiple directions at about 1:15 a.m. Several personnel of the Nigerian Army were also reportedly killed while repelling the attack.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, described the fallen officers as courageous and dedicated personnel who demonstrated exceptional patriotism and commitment to national security through their participation in advanced counter-terrorism and tactical training programmes.
The IGP extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased officers, assuring them that the sacrifices of the fallen heroes would never be forgotten.
In a further show of solidarity, the Commissioner of Police, Yobe State Command, Usman Kanfani Jibrin, visited the institution on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police. During the visit, he commiserated with the Commandant of the School, A.C. Enaugu, officers of the Nigerian Army, and surviving police personnel undergoing training at the facility.
CP Jibrin commended the resilience and bravery of the surviving officers and encouraged them to remain steadfast in completing the training programme in honour of their fallen colleagues.
The Inspector-General of Police also assured Nigerians that the Force, in collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies, would intensify efforts to bring the perpetrators of the attack to justice.
The Nigeria Police Force paid tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and service of the fallen officers, noting that their dedication to duty would forever be remembered and honoured by the nation.
