By Uloma Peace Okorie
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of 17 police officers who lost their lives during a terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The officers were said to be undergoing specialised operational training at the institution when terrorists launched a coordinated attack on the facility in the early hours of May 8, 2026.
In a statement issued by the Nigeria Police Force, the IGP described the incident as heartbreaking, noting that the fallen officers died in active service to the nation while preparing themselves to better combat terrorism and violent crimes.
IGP Disu said he mourns the slain officers with a heavy heart, describing them as brave, dedicated, and patriotic personnel whose sacrifices would never be forgotten.
According to the statement, the terrorists attacked the training facility from multiple directions at about 1:15 a.m., leading to intense gunfire exchanges between security operatives and the assailants. Several personnel of the Nigerian Army were also reportedly killed while courageously defending the institution.
The police boss extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased officers, assuring them that the Force stands firmly with them during this difficult period.
“As a Force, we are deeply saddened by this tragic loss. These officers paid the supreme sacrifice in service to the nation, and their courage and commitment to duty will forever remain honoured,” the statement quoted the IGP as saying.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Yobe State, Usman Kanfani Jibrin, visited the training school on behalf of the IGP to commiserate with the Commandant, A.C. Enuagu, officers of the Nigerian Army, and surviving police personnel at the facility.
He commended the surviving officers for their resilience and encouraged them to remain focused on completing the training programme in honour of their fallen colleagues.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with other security agencies to ensure those behind the attack are brought to justice, while also saluting the courage and sacrifice of the deceased officers whose service to the country would continue to inspire generations.