By Ayo Kehinde
There was a major security scare in Imo State on Tuesday morning as an advance team from the Office of the Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, came under attack by unidentified gunmen along the Umuowa–Ihite axis.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ukoha Njoku, said the incident occurred a few kilometres before the Sam Mbakwe Airport junction, where the officials were headed for an official engagement.
Three members of the governor’s advance team were said to be in the vehicle targeted by the attackers. The operatives were on routine duty en route to the airport when gunmen opened fire.
The Abia State Government clarified that Governor Otti’s convoy was not involved in the incident, countering online rumours suggesting otherwise. The statement also confirmed that no lives were lost, although the incident highlights ongoing security challenges within the region.
“In the early hours of today, December 2nd, an advance team of three members from the Office of the Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr Alex Chioma Otti, on duty at Sam Mbakwe Airport, Imo State, was attacked by unidentified gunmen.
“The incident occurred between Umuowa and Ihite junction, shortly before the Sam Mbakwe Airport Junction in Imo State.
“The general public is hereby informed that the convoy of Governor Otti was not involved in this attack, and no lives were lost during the unfortunate incident”, the statement said.
Authorities in Imo State are expected to commence investigations to identify the attackers and forestall further incidents, while the government urged the public to remain calm as efforts to improve security continue.
