The House of Representatives has announced that it is actively “monitoring media reports” regarding an incident involving lawmaker Alex Ikwechegh (APGA, Abia), who is accused of assaulting a Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya.
This incident, which occurred on Sunday evening, has sparked widespread public interest and concern, especially after a video of the altercation went viral.
Akin Rotimi, spokesperson for the House, stated that the Assembly holds its members to the highest ethical standards both privately and publicly.
“The House of Representatives is monitoring media reports concerning an alleged incident involving Rep. Alex Ikwechegh (APGA, Abia),” Mr Rotimi said in a statement Monday evening. “These reports, which have garnered widespread media coverage and public attention, detail accusations of a physical confrontation with an e-hailing driver, Citizen Stephen Abuwatseya, and the use of threatening language.”
Read also: Nigerian lawmaker Alex Ikwechegh assaults Bolt driver, threatens to make him “disappear” in viral video
House of Reps’ reaction
Mr Rotimi said the House takes the issue of assault and threats “very seriously” but that it would allow the police to run investigationson the matter.
“The 10th Assembly, House of Representatives, takes these allegations very seriously. As elected officials, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of ethical conduct and accountability in our official engagements and privately,” the House spokesperson stated.
Mr Rotimi emphasised that any behaviour falling short of these standards is a “matter of concer.” The House pledged to address such issues with the “utmost seriousness,” to reaffirm its stance on maintaining integrity within its ranks.
Mr Rotimi appealed to the public to exercise restraint and remain calm while waiting for the police to conclude their investigations without interference.
“We are aware that the matter is now before the Nigeria Police, and we urge the public to allow the due process of investigation to unfold,” Mr Rotimi said.
Spokesperson for the House of Reps asked concerned citizens to engage him further on the matter via email, akintunde.rotimi@nass.gov.ng and also at akinrotimi@gmail.com .
Read also: Kenyan ride-hailing drivers demand fair pay
Overview of the assault
Legislator Ikwechegh was seen in the video bellowing threats to the young Bolt driver, querying him repeatedly if he knew who he was. Having slapped Stephen Abuwatseya twice across the cheek, Mr Ikwechegh dared him to report to IGP Kayode Egbetokun and bragged that hd would not be prosecute
“Do you know who I am? I just slapped you and there’s nothing you will do. My name is Honourable Alex Ikwechegh, tell them (public) I slapped you. Call the Inspector General of Police that I slapped you, let him come. Record me very well,” he bragged.
After the video went viral on Monday, police invited Mr Ikwechegh for questioning while netizens continue to troll the lawmaker across various social media platforms including X and Instagram.
The public’s response underscores the demand for accountability from elected officials and the importance of ethical behaviour in public service.