Gunmen attacked the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, Plateau State, late Monday, killing three people, including a police officer, security sources and institute officials said.
The attackers opened fire on security personnel guarding the institute at about 11:40 p.m., triggering a gun battle with security operatives stationed at the facility.
A staff member, who requested anonymity because he was not authorized to speak publicly, said security forces repelled the attackers before they could breach the institute.
"I was sleeping when I heard gunshots. When I woke up, there was already commotion within NIPSS. It turned out the institution was under attack," the staff member said.
He said security reinforcements arrived quickly, forcing the gunmen to flee after killing personnel at the gate.
Residents of nearby communities reported hearing sustained gunfire that sparked panic across the area.
In a statement Tuesday, NIPSS confirmed a security incident near the institute but said the situation had been brought under control.
"There is currently no threat to the safety of participants, staff, residents, or facilities of the Institute, and normal activities are continuing as scheduled," the statement said.
The institute said security agencies had launched an investigation and urged the public to rely on official information while inquiries continue. Authorities have yet to disclose a motive for the attack.
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