Terrorists kill 17 police officers at Army Special Forces School in Yobe
17 Police Officers Killed in Terrorist Attack in Yobe State
Gujba, Yobe State — The Nigeria Police Force confirmed the deaths of 17 police officers following a terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi early on May 8, 2026.
According to a statement from Deputy Commissioner of Police Anthony Okon Placid, the officers were undergoing specialized operational training at the facility when the attack occurred around 1:15 a.m. Terrorists engaged the premises from multiple directions.
The statement also noted that several personnel of the Nigerian Army similarly lost their lives while defending the school against the attackers.
Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu characterized the fallen officers as courageous individuals who exemplified exceptional dedication to national security during their advanced counter-terrorism and tactical training. He expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, assuring them that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.
In a show of support, Yobe State Commissioner of Police Usman Kanfani Jibrin visited the Special Forces School, where he conveyed sympathies to Brigadier General A.C. Enuagu, the school’s commandant, as well as to the surviving police officers present. During the visit, he praised the resilience of the remaining personnel and encouraged them to honor their fallen colleagues by completing their training.
The Inspector-General emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies, would continue efforts to bring the attackers to justice.
The Nigeria Police Force recognized the courage and service of the fallen officers, affirming that their dedication to duty will be honored by the nation.
