Breaking:Panic In Owerri As Gunmen Attack Governor Alex Otti’s Advance Convoy — Governor Safe
By Paul Ebi
Tension erupted in Owerri on Tuesday morning after fleeing gunmen launched a sudden attack on the advance convoy of Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, near the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport.
The incident, which triggered confusion and frantic reactions across social media, reportedly left three security personnel attached to the convoy injured, though details remain sketchy.
In a swift statement issued moments after the assault, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, confirmed the attack but clarified that Governor Otti was not in the affected convoy at the time.
> “The Governor is safe. The attack was on an advance team heading towards the airport,” Ukoha stated, assuring the public that security operatives were already on the situation.
Eyewitness Claims, Panic Reactions Flood Social Media
As the news broke, online spaces exploded with reactions — ranging from fear to political commentary.
Some commenters suggested that the attackers operated like “unknown gunmen,” a phrase commonly used in the region to describe unidentified armed groups. Others speculated political motives, especially following Governor Otti’s recent controversial visit to detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
One user wrote:
> “They are not happy with him because he is not playing along. Visiting Nnamdi Kanu shocked them.”
Another warned:
> “My fear is they will still tag this to IPOB and many will believe it.”
Some insisted the attack was orchestrated to sow political tension:
> “Just say political gunmen in Imo attacked Otti. Opposition at work.”
A few commenters linked the situation to broader insecurity in the Southeast, with one lamenting:
> “Udele will come out tomorrow and say it’s IPOB or ESN.”
Others offered prayers for the governor:
> “God protect the only working governor in Jesus name.”
Another added humorously:
> “God protect this one eye wey we dey use see road.”
Security Concerns Heighten
The attack has sparked fresh concerns about the rising boldness of gunmen across the region, even near highly patrolled zones. Some users questioned why such an incident could occur in an area they described as “dominant with Army presence.”
Calls for the governor to adopt advanced security technology also surfaced:
> “He should buy drones like Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu did yesterday.”
Officials Yet To Confirm Motive
As of press time, no official link has been made to any specific group, and security agencies have not released further details about the attackers or their motives.
The Abia State Government insists that Governor Otti remains safe, and investigations are ongoing.
