Police confirm 17 training officers killed in Yobe terrorist attack

​The Nigeria Police Force on Saturday announced the killing of 17 police officers during a coordinated terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, located within the Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.

​A statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer Anthony Placid, a deputy commissioner of police, confirmed that the lethal assault targeted the military institution in the early hours of 8 May 2026.

​Coordinated ambush from multiple directions

​The deceased officers were undergoing specialised operational training at the institution when terrorists launched a simultaneous attack on the facility from multiple directions at approximately 0115 hours. Several Nigerian Army personnel also lost their lives while successfully repelling the assault.
​The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, described the fallen personnel as courageous and dedicated individuals who demonstrated exceptional patriotism. He noted that their commitment to national security was reflected in their participation in advanced counter-terrorism and tactical training programmes.

​Security agencies pledge justice for perpetrators

​Inspector-General Disu conveyed the heartfelt condolences of the entire force to the bereaved families, providing assurances that the sacrifices of the deceased officers would be preserved in national honour.

​In a demonstration of solidarity, Yobe State Command Commissioner of Police Usman Kanfani Jibrin visited the institution on behalf of the Inspector-General. Commissioner Jibrin commiserated with the Commandant of the school, Brigadier General A.C. Enuagu, alongside military officers and the surviving police personnel undergoing training at the facility.

​Commissioner Jibrin commended the resilience of the surviving officers, encouraging them to remain resolute in completing their training programme to honour their fallen colleagues. The Inspector-General assured the public that the police force, working in close collaboration with the armed forces and other security agencies, will sustain ongoing operations to bring the perpetrators of the attack to justice.