A devastating security breach has claimed the lives of 17 police officers in Yobe State. The officers, who were undergoing advanced tactical and counter-terrorism training, were killed during a coordinated, multi-directional overnight ambush by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists.

 

 

The assault targeted the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, located within the Gujba Local Government Area.

 

 

How the Attack Unfolded

The tactical school became a battleground in the early hours of May 8, 2026, when insurgents launched a surprise raid under the cover of total darkness.

  • Time of Attack: Approximately 01:15 AM.

  • The Tactics: Terrorists swarmed the facility simultaneously from multiple directions.

     

     

  • The Response: Troops of Operation Hadin Kai engaged the attackers in a fierce, high-stakes gun battle, eventually using heavy firepower to repel the assault.

The Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, confirmed that while the base was successfully defended, several heroic personnel of the Nigerian Army also made the ultimate sacrifice alongside the 17 police officers during the confrontation.

Force Leadership Honors the Fallen

Reacting to the heartbreaking news, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, expressed profound grief, praising the fallen personnel for their patriotism.

"These were courageous and dedicated personnel who demonstrated exceptional patriotism and commitment to national security by stepping up for advanced counter-terrorism training," the IGP stated.

High-Level Solidarity Visit

In a show of solidarity between the security arms, the Yobe State Commissioner of Police, CP Usman Kanfani Jibrin, paid an official condolence visit to the institution.

  • CP Jibrin commiserated deeply with the School's Commandant, Brigadier General A.C. Enuagu, as well as the military staff.

  • Meeting with the surviving police trainees, the CP highly commended their resilience and urged them to stand resolute and complete their specialized program in honor of their slain colleagues.

Justice Promised

The Nigeria Police Force has assured the public that they are actively collaborating with the Armed Forces and sister intelligence agencies to track down the perpetrators. The IGP emphasized that ongoing joint operations will be sustained to ensure that those responsible for the Buni Yadi raid are brought to justice.

Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest condolences go out to the families of the brave officers and soldiers who paid the supreme price for national security.