The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the deaths of 17 of its officers following a terrorist assault on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School located in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State. The attack occurred in the early hours of May 8, 2026.
According to a statement issued by DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the Force Public Relations Officer, the officers were participating in specialized operational training at the institution when the attack began around 1:15 a.m. The terrorists launched a coordinated assault from multiple directions.
The statement also noted that several brave personnel from the Nigerian Army lost their lives while valiantly defending the facility against the attackers.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, praised the fallen officers as courageous and dedicated individuals who showed exceptional patriotism and commitment to national security by taking part in advanced counter-terrorism and tactical training programs. He extended the condolences of the entire Force to the families of the deceased, assuring them that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.
In a show of solidarity, the Commissioner of Police for Yobe State Command, CP Usman Kanfani Jibrin, visited the school on behalf of the IGP. During the visit, he expressed sympathy to the Commandant of the school, Brigadier General A.C. Enuagu, as well as to Nigerian Army officers and the surviving police personnel still undergoing training at the facility.
Commending the resilience and bravery of the survivors, CP Jibrin urged them to remain steadfast and complete their training in honor of their fallen colleagues.
The IGP assured the public that the police, in close collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies, will continue efforts to bring the perpetrators of this attack to justice.
The Nigeria Police Force honors the courage, sacrifice, and service of the fallen officers, whose dedication to duty will forever be remembered by the nation.