By CHUKWUMA OFILLI
Gunmen attack Abia Governor Otti’s advance team
Gunmen opened fire on an advance team of Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, in the early hours of Tuesday, December 2, 2025, triggering brief tension along the Umuowa–Ihite axis in Imo State. The incident happened as the three-man protocol team made its way to the Sam Mbakwe Cargo Airport in Owerri.
Advance Team Comes Under Fire
According to sources, the advance team was approaching the airport junction when armed men suddenly ambushed their vehicle and released a volley of shots. Despite the surprise attack, the officials managed to escape without injuries. Their vehicle was not damaged, and no life was lost during the encounter.
Government Confirms Governor Otti Was Nowhere Near the Scene
Shortly after the news spread, the Abia State Government issued a statement to calm rising concerns. Governor Otti’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, stressed that the gunmen attack on Abia Governor Otti’s advance team did not involve the governor’s main convoy, which was far from the area at the time of the incident.
He explained that, “The convoy of His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, was not attacked. No member of the advance team or any other person sustained injury, and no life was lost.”
He also urged the public to disregard misleading claims suggesting that the governor was targeted or harmed.
Security Agencies Launch Investigation
Authorities have begun investigating the gunmen attack on Abia Governor Otti’s advance team, with security operatives notified immediately after the incident. Efforts are underway to track, identify, and arrest the attackers. Although motives remain unclear, officials say the investigation will determine whether it was an isolated act of violence or part of a larger threat pattern.
Public Reactions and Growing Security Concerns
The attack has revived concerns about rising insecurity on major access routes across the South-East. While many residents expressed relief that no one was hurt, others urged security agencies to strengthen patrols around the airport corridor, noting that the route has recorded similar incidents in the past.
Although the government has appealed for calm, the gunmen attack on Abia Governor Otti’s advance team underscores the tense security atmosphere in the region as both state and federal investigators work to prevent future incidents.
Looking Ahead
As security agencies widen their probe, the Abia State Government reassured citizens that the governor remains focused on governance and will not be distracted by attempts to create fear or misinformation. Officials insist that stronger security measures will be implemented to ensure the safety of government personnel and the public.
The situation remains stable, and updates are expected as investigations progress.
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