A tragic incident unfolded yesterday along the Nkpor–Nnobi Road in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, when gunmen dressed in police and army camouflage opened fire on the convoy of former Anambra State governor and ex-Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige.
Although Ngige narrowly escaped death, as he was not in the convoy at the time, the attack left one woman dead and two others injured.
Lady Shot Dead for Videoing Gunmen
The most heartbreaking casualty was a young lady who reportedly stepped out of her hairdressing salon to capture the unfolding violence on her phone. Witnesses say the gunmen spotted her recording and immediately shot her, killing her on the spot. Her death has sparked outrage and deep sorrow within the community, where she was known as a hardworking entrepreneur.
How the Attack Happened
According to eyewitnesses, the assailants—clad in military and police camouflage—ran into the former governor’s convoy and opened fire without warning. Security operatives attached to the convoy returned fire, resulting in a brief but intense gun duel.
A police officer in the pilot vehicle sustained gunshot wounds, while a nearby shop owner, who rushed out in confusion to see what was happening, was also struck by bullets. He reportedly lost a significant amount of blood and has been scheduled for surgery, with doctors optimistic about his recovery.
Ngige Confirms Incident Through Media Aide
Ngige’s media aide, Fred Chukwuelobe, issued a statement confirming the attack and clarifying that Ngige was not part of the convoy during the assault.
According to Chukwuelobe:
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The attackers riddled the pilot vehicle with bullets.
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The lead escort was injured, and the attackers made away with his gun and uniform.
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The former governor has personally taken steps to ensure all injured parties receive adequate medical treatment.
Chukwuelobe added:
“I just got off the phone with His Excellency, and he confirmed the development, promising to do all he can to ensure that those injured receive adequate treatment.
He also commiserated with the family of the unfortunate lady who was killed while videoing the scene.”
Police Confirm Recovery of Bullet-Riddled Vehicle
In a separate statement, the Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the attack, noting that one police operative was injured and is currently stable in a medical facility.
Ikenga disclosed that the police recovered a white Mercedes-Benz SUV earlier snatched by armed criminals. The vehicle was abandoned by the fleeing hoodlums during a coordinated pursuit by multiple tactical units, including:
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Operations Department, Awka
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Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Akwuzu
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Special Anti-Cultism Unit (SPACS), Enugu-Ukwu
During the pursuit, the police team encountered Ngige’s convoy, which joined the chase and engaged the criminals in a gun battle, forcing them to abandon the stolen vehicle.
Statewide Manhunt Underway
Ikenga emphasized that the police have intensified a coordinated, statewide manhunt for the attackers, with investigations already underway to unravel the identities of the hoodlums and the motive behind the assault.
Growing Security Concerns
The attack has yet again highlighted the rising wave of criminal impersonation in the region, with assailants frequently donning military or police uniforms to carry out violent operations. The killing of a civilian simply for recording the incident has drawn public condemnation and renewed calls for strengthened security measures.
As investigations continue, residents of Idemili North and surrounding communities remain anxious but hopeful that the perpetrators will be apprehended soon.