An early-morning assignment turned tense for an advance team attached to Abia State Governor Alex Otti after their vehicle came under fire from unidentified gunmen.
The attack, which briefly disrupted the team’s journey, sparked initial confusion across social platforms, as speculation spread about the governor’s convoy.
Officials later clarified that Governor Otti was not travelling with the team at the time, and no life-threatening injuries were recorded.
Moreover, state authorities stressed that the situation was brought under control quickly, preventing a wider security breach.
The incident occurred on Tuesday around the Umuowa–Ihite stretch of Imo State as the three-man delegation headed towards Sam Mbakwe Airport.
Their vehicle was ambushed shortly before the airport junction, prompting an immediate security response in the area.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, explained that the attack targeted only the advance team and not the governor.
He said the clarification became necessary to counter reports that created public anxiety.
“We want to reassure the public that His Excellency’s convoy was nowhere near the location at the time of the assault,” he said. “Our team members were shaken, but thankfully, no one was harmed.”
He added that security agencies had begun tracing the attackers and assessing whether the strike was random or coordinated.
“Investigations have started, and we expect updates as operatives comb the scene,” he stated.
The Abia Government urged residents of both states to remain calm, noting that heightened patrols had been deployed around the affected corridor.
Furthermore, officials described the attack as a reminder of the ongoing security challenges along interstate travel routes, stressing the need for stronger joint operations between neighbouring states.