Abia State Governor Alex Otti has recounted how he said he escaped an alleged assassination attempt in Abuja in 2015, saying his faith in God helped sustain him through difficult moments in his political journey.
Mr Otti spoke on Thursday night at the Abia Solemn Assembly and Covenant Renewal Service in Umuahia.
The state government organised the event under the theme, “Remembering the Covenant.” The gathering focused on prayer, thanksgiving and the renewal of Abia’s commitment to God.
During his address, Abia State Governor Alex Otti described his entry into politics and some of the challenges he faced while pursuing his ambition to lead the state.
He then recalled an incident in July 2015 which he described as an assassination attempt.
According to Mr Otti, about 12 armed men arrived at a property in Maitama, Abuja, while looking for him.
However, he said he had left the location shortly before the men arrived.
Mr Otti said the attackers opened fire and shot two people before searching the building and a neighbouring property.
“They were looking for me, but God had taken me away,” he said, according to reports of his speech.
He said the incident could have ended his life but credited his survival to his decision to serve God.
The governor also linked the experience to his broader political journey, which began with his bid to govern Abia in 2015.
The Solemn Assembly was held as the state renewed its covenant and sought divine guidance for its affairs.
Earlier, the Abia government had announced the programme as a period of prayer, fasting, thanksgiving and spiritual reflection. The government said the exercise would also renew its commitment to the welfare and progress of the state.
The September 24 gathering brought together government officials, religious leaders and other stakeholders in Umuahia.
For Otti, the event provided an opportunity to recount a defining episode in his political journey while reaffirming his stated commitment to serving God and the people of Abia.
