Summary
Former Anambra State Governor and immediate past Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, has recounted the terrifying moment gunmen targeted his convoy on Thursday in Anambra State, while reassuring the public that he remains safe.
Ngige gave the account during a visit from the former governor who succeeded him, Mr Peter Obi, at his hometown in Alor, Idemili South Local Government Area. He described how members of his security team, returning from errands, were ambushed at Umuoji by armed men disguised in police and military uniforms.
According to Ngige, the attackers trailed the convoy, opened fire, killed a woman, and injured his police orderly before seizing the officer’s rifle and uniforms. He dismissed rumours circulating about his death, stressing: “As you can see, I’m alive; I’m not dead, so there should be no panic.”
Ngige revealed that the gunmen accused the policemen of “serving a zoo government,” a statement he found deeply unsettling, hinting at the possibility of a deliberate attempt to steal weapons and official uniforms. He confirmed that he had informed Governor Chukwuma Soludo of the attack and received assurances that the perpetrators would be tracked down to prevent further threats to public safety.
He further noted that it remained unclear whether the attack was personally targeted at him, though his convoy is easily identifiable because his pilot driver of 22 years is widely known. Still, he suggested the attackers may simply have been targeting any convoy with police escorts.
Speaking on the wider security challenges, Ngige reiterated his long-standing position that the situation involving IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu requires a political resolution, citing concerns over Kanu’s health and the need for a broader assessment of the matter.
During his visit, Obi thanked God for Ngige’s safety and expressed deep condolences to the family of the woman who was killed, urging authorities to ensure accountability and intensify efforts to prevent similar tragedies. Obi, the Labour Party’s former presidential candidate, condemned the attack, calling it shocking and unacceptable.
Obi emphasized that the murder of the woman, who was reportedly recording the incident, was a “painful reminder of the needless bloodshed people have continued to endure.” He urged security agencies to strengthen coordinated operations as the festive season approaches, stressing that residents deserve to travel and live peacefully.
What you should know
This incident highlights escalating security concerns in Anambra State, particularly as gunmen increasingly target convoys and security personnel.
Chris Ngige’s testimony underscores the fragility of the situation, while Peter Obi’s visit and condemnation reflect widespread public alarm.
The killing of an innocent woman has intensified calls for stronger law enforcement measures as the state prepares for a busy holiday period.
