Gunmen on Monday night attacked the staff quarters of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, Plateau State, killing two soldiers and a police officer.

The security personnel were on duty at the residential area of the institute when the attack occurred.

NIPSS confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Tuesday by its Head of Public Affairs, Dr. Osime Samuel. He described the attack as a security incident that occurred near the institute in the early hours of Tuesday.

According to the statement, security operatives responded quickly and brought the situation under control.

"There is currently no threat to the safety of participants, staff, residents, or facilities of the Institute. Normal activities are continuing as scheduled," Samuel said.

Sources familiar with the incident said the attackers targeted the residences of the Acting Director of Studies, Barrister Nima Salman-Mann, and a Directing Staff member, Professor Haruna Dabin.

The sources disclosed that both officials had received handwritten threat notes on Saturday. The notes, which were reportedly pasted on their doors, demanded payments of $100,000 and N15 million. The matter was said to have been reported to the institute's management.

A source who requested anonymity said the slain soldiers and police officer were killed during a gun battle with the attackers.

"Local security personnel monitor the staff quarters during the day, while soldiers and police officers provide protection at night. It is believed the attackers came for the officials they had earlier threatened and demanded money from," the source said.

NIPSS said security agencies have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack.

The institute added that it is working closely with relevant authorities and will release verified information as investigations progress.

Management also reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of staff, residents and participants, while commending the response of security personnel involved in handling the incident.

The bodies of the three security personnel have been deposited at a mortuary.