RismadarVoice Reporters
September 25, 2026
Abia State Governor Alex Otti has recounted how he escaped an alleged assassination attempt at his Abuja residence in 2015, saying an unexpected decision to leave the Federal Capital Territory before the attack saved his life.
Otti spoke on Thursday night at the Abia Solemn Assembly and Covenant Renewal Service in Umuahia, themed “Remembering the Covenant,” where he reflected on his political journey and the challenges he encountered after the 2015 governorship election.
The governor said he was in Abuja for a meeting while challenging the outcome of the election at the tribunal, but the engagement was repeatedly postponed and eventually failed to hold.
According to him, he decided to return to Abia despite efforts by friends to persuade him to remain in Abuja.
Otti said armed men subsequently attacked his Maitama residence and killed two police officers while allegedly searching for him.
“Assassins attacked my residence in Abuja, shot two policemen dead, and they were looking for me,” he said.
The governor said he had already left Abuja before the attackers arrived, describing his absence as divine intervention.
“Of course, God had taken me away,” Otti said.
He said the assailants, whom he was later told numbered about 12, searched the premises and an adjoining property after failing to locate him.
“There was no reason for me not to be there, but God had taken me away from there,” he added.
Otti also recalled being advised by some associates against entering politics, while others allegedly suggested that he seek protection through traditional or spiritual means.
He said he rejected such advice and maintained his Christian faith, citing Joshua 24:15 as a guiding scripture in his political journey.
Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Uzor Nwachukwu said Otti and members of his team observed seven days of fasting and prayer following his victory in the 2023 governorship election.
Nwachukwu said the solemn assembly was organised to give thanks and renew the administration’s commitment to the state.
Lead Pastor of Transforming Church International, Dr Sam Oye, also addressed the gathering, commending developments recorded by the administration while urging the government to strengthen institutions, expand economic opportunities and develop industrial and agro-processing corridors.
The event was attended by Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu, government officials and Christian clerics and featured prayers, praise and worship.
