An advance team of staff attached to Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, came under attack on Tuesday morning when unidentified gunmen ambushed their vehicle near the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, the Imo State capital. The incident has heightened concerns over rising insecurity across parts of the South-East.
According to eyewitness accounts, the attack occurred along the Umuowa–Ihite junction, a stretch just a few minutes away from the airport. The officials were reportedly heading to the facility to prepare for an official engagement when the gunmen, suspected to be fleeing attackers, suddenly opened fire on their vehicle.
Residents in the area said they heard multiple gunshots shortly before security operatives arrived. The targeted vehicle was said to have sustained significant damage, although the exact extent of injuries among the three staff members inside has not been officially disclosed.
Sources familiar with the situation told PUNCH Online that the gunmen appeared to be escaping from a different operation before crossing paths with the governor’s advance team. Their motive for the ambush remains unclear, and it is not yet known whether they mistook the vehicle for a government convoy or acted intentionally.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Governor Otti’s Chief Press Secretary, Njoku Ukoha, confirmed the attack. He emphasized that the assaulted group was part of an advance team responsible for preparatory duties and not the governor’s main convoy. Ukoha added that Governor Otti was nowhere near the area at the time of the incident, dispelling concerns about a direct attempt on his life.
“The security agencies have been fully briefed and are already carrying out the necessary investigations,” the statement read. “We urge members of the public to remain calm while the authorities work to unravel those behind the attack.”
Security personnel from both Abia and Imo states have reportedly intensified surveillance around the airport corridor and surrounding communities. The region has experienced sporadic gunmen-related incidents in recent months, prompting frequent calls for coordinated security operations among neighbouring states.
The attack has triggered renewed discussions about the safety of government officials and the vulnerability of critical routes in the South-East. Analysts have described the incident as another reminder of the need for stronger intelligence gathering and joint inter-state security measures.
As investigations continue, residents in the area are appealing for increased patrols and visible security presence, especially along major entry points into Owerri. Authorities are expected to issue further updates once more information becomes available.
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