Gunmen have attacked the advance team of Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, in Imo State on Tuesday, sparking initial panic over the governor’s safety.

The attack occurred between Umuowa and Ihite junction, not far from the Sam Mbakwe Airport, as the team travelled to the facility for official duties. Confusion briefly spread across the state, with many fearing that Governor Otti was in the convoy when the gunmen opened fire.

Reacting to the incident, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, confirmed the attack.

According to him, “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 to 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.”

Meanwhile, unconfirmed reports indicate that some passengers travelling to Owerri, the Imo State capital, were allegedly kidnapped by yet-to-be identified gunmen along the same route where the governor’s team was attacked.

The Abia State Police Command has not released an official statement on the incident.