The Anambra State Government has confirmed a deadly assault on the convoy of Chief Ben Nwankwo, the Chief of Staff to Governor Chukwuma Soludo. The attack occurred along the Amansea–Awa–Ufuma Road in Orumba North Local Government Area.
Details of the Attack
The incident took place on the night of Sunday, May 31, 2026, between 8pm and 9pm. According to eyewitnesses, the attackers positioned themselves in nearby bushes and opened fire as the convoy approached, triggering a fierce gun battle that caused panic in surrounding communities. The convoy was returning to Awka after an official assignment.
Casualties and Injuries
The attack resulted in the deaths of two police officers and two civilians. Chief Nwankwo escaped unharmed, but several other occupants in the convoy sustained injuries during the exchange of gunfire. Emergency services were swiftly deployed to the scene.
Government Response
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner for Information and Value Orientation, Law Mefor, expressed deep sadness and assured that those responsible would be brought to justice. In a statement, Mefor said: "The Anambra State government is shocked by the attack on the convoy of the chief of staff to the governor. This was more than an attack on one person. It was an attack on the peace, security, and democratic order of our state."
Mefor further stated that security agencies have been deployed to track down the assailants, insisting that the attack will not derail ongoing efforts to improve security in the state. The government has vowed to implement additional measures to protect residents and prevent such incidents in the future.
Context and Security Concerns
This attack highlights ongoing security challenges in Anambra State, which has seen sporadic incidents of violence in recent years. The state government has been working to enhance security through community policing and intelligence-led operations. The Commissioner called on residents to remain calm and cooperate with authorities by providing any information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators.
The Chief of Staff's narrow escape underscores the risks faced by public officials in the region. The government reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of all citizens and maintaining democratic order.
