The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, yesterday paid glowing tribute to 17 policemen of the Police Mobile Force 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 killed in the early hours of May 8, 2026, while serving in the line of duty during the deadly assault carried out by terrorists on the military facility.
Speaking during a solemn ceremony held at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, the police chief described the fallen officers as brave patriots who sacrificed their lives in defence of the nation and the security of its citizens.
The emotional event drew senior police officers, family members of the deceased, colleagues, government officials and other security stakeholders who gathered to honour the memories of the slain officers.
Disu said the sacrifice made by the officers would never be forgotten by the Nigeria Police Force, stressing that their courage and dedication to national service would continue to inspire future generations of security personnel.
“Today, we gather with heavy hearts but with immense pride to honour 17 gallant officers of the Police Mobile Force who paid the supreme price in service to our dear nation during the terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School, Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State, in the early hours of 8th May, 2026,” the IGP stated.
He noted that the officers demonstrated uncommon bravery in the face of danger, adding that their actions reflected the highest ideals of patriotism, professionalism and sacrifice.
The police chief vowed that the Force would not be discouraged or intimidated by the activities of terrorists, kidnappers and criminal gangs operating across parts of the country.
According to him, the loss of the officers has instead strengthened the resolve of the Nigeria Police Force to intensify ongoing operations against terrorism and violent crimes threatening national peace and stability.
Disu declared that security agencies remain fully committed to protecting Nigerians and ensuring that those responsible for acts of terror are brought to justice.
He assured citizens that the police would continue to work closely with other security agencies, including the military and intelligence services, to confront insecurity and dismantle criminal networks across the country.
The IGP also praised the dedication of officers serving in volatile and high-risk areas, acknowledging the enormous sacrifices made daily by security personnel in the defence of the nation.
He said the fallen officers represented the courage and resilience of thousands of policemen who continue to put their lives on the line despite the dangers associated with security operations.
Disu further assured the families of the deceased officers that the Force would stand by them during their period of grief and ensure that the sacrifices of their loved ones are honoured appropriately.
He stressed that the Nigeria Police Force recognises the emotional and social burden carried by families of officers who die in active service and would continue to support them through existing welfare programmes.
The attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi shocked many Nigerians and again highlighted the persistent security challenges facing parts of the North-East region.
Buni Yadi, located in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State, has experienced several terrorist-related incidents over the years due to insurgent activities in the region.
Security analysts say attacks targeting military and security formations are often intended to weaken morale and create fear among security personnel and civilians.
However, the Inspector-General insisted that the Nigeria Police Force remains determined and focused despite recent losses suffered in the line of duty.
He emphasised that terrorism and violent extremism would not be allowed to undermine the country’s unity or disrupt efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability.
The tribute ceremony also featured prayers and moments of silence in honour of the deceased officers, whose service records were described by colleagues as exemplary and patriotic.
Several senior officers at the event praised the fallen policemen for their discipline and commitment, noting that they remained faithful to their duty until their final moments.
Across the country, condolences have continued to pour in for the families of the slain officers, with many Nigerians expressing appreciation for the sacrifices made by security personnel battling insecurity.
Observers say the incident further underscores the dangers faced daily by members of the armed forces and police as they confront terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities.
Despite the tragedy, the police leadership maintained that the sacrifice of the 17 officers would strengthen the institution’s determination to defend the country and protect innocent citizens from violent attacks.
Disu concluded by assuring Nigerians that the memories of the fallen officers would remain permanently engraved in the hearts of members of the Force, while their sacrifice would continue to serve as a symbol of courage, honour and national service.
