- Court Grants Ikwechegh N500k Bail
By Abiola Olawale
Hon. Alex Ikwechegh, the lawmaker representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency of Abia State at the House of Representatives, has been arraigned before a magistrate court in Kuje, Abuja, over the alleged assault of a Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya.
The Federal lawmaker appeared before the court after the office of the Inspector-General of Police filed a lawsuit against him.
Appearing before the court on Wednesday, Ikwechegh was arraigned on a three-count charge bordering on alleged assault and threat to life.
However, he pleaded not guilty to the charges filed by the office of the inspector-general of police.
After pleading not guilty, his counsel then made an oral application for his bail.
Following arguments on the bail, Abubakar Umar Sai’id, the magistrate, granted the application with the bail sum set at N500,000 and two sureties in like sum.
He said the sureties must reside within the jurisdiction of the court and provide utility bills as proof of residence.
The case was adjourned to November 8, 2024. The New Diplomat reports that Ikwechegh, a member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), came under public criticism for allegedly slapping and hurling insults at Abuwatseya.
In a viral video, Ikwechegh was purportedly seen in a heated exchange with the Bolt driver whom he accused of disrespect for asking him to approach the car to receive his package.
The incident, which occurred on October 27 in the Maitama district of Abuja, sparked public outrage on social media.
Following the emergence of the viral video, Ikwechegh issued an apology to Abuwatseya.
He said: “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.
“I sincerely apologize for my words and actions during this incident. I recognize the distress and frustration this has caused Citizen Abuwatseya, his family, and the public at large.
“As a public servant, I understand the weight of my role and how my words can impact others.”
