- Activist: Recall Him outrightly As a Lesson
By Abiola Olawale
Hon. Alex Ikwechegh, the lawmaker representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency of Abia State at the House of Representatives, has apologised for assaulting Stephen Abuwatseya, a Bolt driver, triggering mixed reactions.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, the lawmaker said he regrets his actions. 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.”
The lawmaker also said he and Abuwatseya have “explored alternative dispute resolution methods to address this issue and have reached a respectful resolution, which I am committed to following through”.
The legislator further apologised to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun.
He continued: “I reaffirm my respect for the Nigerian Police Force and the Inspector General’s commitment to maintaining law and order.
“Additionally, I extend my sincere apologies to the leadership and members of this House and the National Assembly as a whole for any deficit in goodwill this incident may have caused.
“I am aware that my actions reflect not only on myself but also on this esteemed institution and the trust that the public places in us.
“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.”
This has elicited mixed reaction. While some Nigerians welcome the move, others believe he should be recalled out rightly as a lesson.
One Uche Okonkwo, an Aba based commentator and activist said: “ Recsll him out rightly as a lesson to him and other politicians who behave that way.”
The New Diplomat reports that Ikwechegh came under heavy scrutiny after he was seen in a heated exchange with the driver, whom he accused of disrespect for asking him to approach the car to receive his package.
The lawmaker was filmed purportedly assaulting Abuwatseya in a viral video.
The clip showed a man identified as Ikwechegh hurling invective and expletives at Abuwatseya while threatening to “make him disappear”.
A voice seemingly belonging to the lawmaker had said: “Do you know where you are? Do you know who you are talking to? Look at this monkey. I’m a member of the house of representatives. I slapped you. Call the inspector-general of police.”
