An alarming incident involving Nigerian lawmaker Alex Ikwechegh has incited widespread outrage after a video surfaced showing him physically and verbally assaulting Bolt driver Stephen Abuwatseya in Abuja on October 27, 2024.
In the footage, Ikwechegh, who represents Aba North and South Federal Constituency, is seen verbally and physically confronting Abuwatseya, boasting about his ability to act without consequences. “I don’t need to pay you,” he allegedly stated before having Abuwatseya arrested on false charges.
In response, a coalition of 84 civil society organisations condemned the assault, declaring, “We strongly condemn Mr. Alex Ikwechegh’s reprehensible assault on Mr. Stephen Abuwatseya. We insist that he faces the full consequences of his actions.” They demand Ikwechegh’s immediate prosecution and suspension, emphasising the need for accountability within Nigeria’s political framework.”
The Nigerian Police have since arrested Ikwechegh, who issued an apology, although critics deem it insincere.
He referred to Abuwatseya merely as “the Bolt driver,” claiming he would assist in bringing the “culprit” to justice.
Civil society organisations are calling for several actions: prosecution of Ikwechegh, immediate suspension from the House, protection for Abuwatseya, and prioritisation from the National Human Rights Commission.
They warn that “The influence of Ikwechegh and his cohorts must not prejudice the outcome.”
