House of Representatives member Alex Ikwechegh, caught on camera assaulting Bolt driver Stephen Abuwatseya, has issued an apology.
Earlier, The New Daily Prime reported that Ikwechegh was captured in a viral video assaulting Abuwatseya, who arrived at his Abuja residence in Maitama to deliver a package.
In the video, Ikwechegh—who represents Aba North and South—was seen slapping and verbally abusing Abuwatseya, who managed to record the incident. Tensions escalated when the driver requested Ikwechegh come outside to collect his package, a request the lawmaker deemed disrespectful.
Ikwechegh responded with threats, claiming he could make the driver ‘disappear’ without repercussions.
Following the video’s release, Ikwechegh was arrested by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command, as confirmed by Abuja Command spokesperson Josephine Adeh.
The lawmaker in a statement on his Facebook page issued an apology, acknowledging the distress caused to his person, family, and the public, and expressing regret for his actions.
He said: “I wish to address an incident that occurred on Sunday involving an unfortunate exchange with Citizen Stephen Abuwatseya, an e-hailing cab driver. What began as a misunderstanding escalated into actions and remarks I deeply regret, which do not reflect the values and character I strive to uphold, both as a citizen and as a representative of the people.
“As a public servant, I understand the weight of my role and how my words can impact others. While I am human and not infallible, I remain accountable for my actions. Citizen Abuwatseya and I have explored alternative dispute resolution methods to address this issue and have reached a respectful resolution, which I am committed to following through.”
He also extended his apologies to Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, acknowledging the unintended offence his comments may have caused to him, his office, and the entire police institution.
He reaffirmed his respect for the police force and commended the IGP’s unwavering commitment to upholding law and order.
Furthermore, he apologized to the leadership and members of this House, as well as the National Assembly as a whole, for any erosion of goodwill this incident may have inadvertently caused.
The lawmaker emphasized his awareness that his actions not only reflect on him but also on the House of Representatives as an institution and the public trust they are entrusted with.
“This incident has been a humbling reminder of the necessity for restraint and self-control, especially in challenging circumstances. I sincerely apologize for any pain or discomfort my actions may have caused, and I am committed to learning from this experience to grow into a better citizen and a more empathetic representative of the people.
“This experience is particularly disheartening given my recent achievements in constituency engagement, including many interventions in health, agriculture, education, and economic empowerment for my people. It is a teachable moment not only for me but also for many in the political sphere, as we are held to higher standards of conduct and rhetoric, even under provocation. I am committed to using this as an opportunity for growth and as a call to be better, and do better.”
