Representative Alex Ikwechegh has apologised for assaulting a Bolt driver, Mr Stephen Abuwatseya in Abuja.
Mr Abuwatseya was delivering a package to Ikwechegh on Zamfara Crescent in Maitama, Abuja, on October 27, when a dispute arose concerning the method of delivery.
The lawmaker, representing Aba North and South Constituency, had threatened to make the driver “disappear” without consequences.
On Monday, Alex Ikwechegh was interrogated by the police following a petition by Abuwatseya.
A remorseful Ikwechegh, who faced massive backlash on social media has expressed regret on the episode. The lawmaker said he was sorry for his actions, noting that they were unbecoming of a public official.
Read the statement: “I, Honourable Alex Ikwechegh, Member of the House of Representatives, wish to address a deeply disturbing incident that occurred at my residence recently. A video has surfaced, showing me engaging in unacceptable behaviour towards an Uber driver who came to deliver a waybill for me. I am deeply sorry for my actions and acknowledge that they were unacceptable and unbecoming of a public official.
“As a public servant, I recognize the trust placed in me by my constituents and the Nigerian people. My behaviour fell short of the standards expected of me, and for that, I am truly sorry. I understand that my actions have caused harm and embarrassment to the driver, my constituents, and the nation at large.
“I want to assure the public that I am fully cooperating with the Nigerian Police investigation into this matter. I support their efforts to ensure that justice is served and that those responsible are held accountable. I also appreciate the swift condemnation of my actions by my party and the Nigerian Police, demonstrating our collective commitment to upholding the law and protecting the rights of all citizens.
“I am taking immediate steps to address the underlying issues that led to this incident. I am seeking professional counselling to ensure that such behaviour never happens again. Additionally, I will be engaging in community service initiatives focused on promoting respect, empathy, and understanding.
“I urge all Nigerians to join me in promoting a culture of respect, tolerance, and understanding. We must work together to build a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.”
Earlier, in a statement, the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, deplored the action of the lawmaker.
The statement by APGA National Publicity Secretary, Mazi Ejimofor Opara read in part:
“As a political party founded on respect for Human Rights, we roundly condemn the action of our said member and Federal Parliamentarian, Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency, on the platform of our great Party.
“As a party, we are founded on the basic principles of upholding the dignity of all humans irrespective of class, creed and/or ethnicity. The recent video allegedly showing Hon. Ikwechegh assaulting a cab driver is totally unacceptable and runs counter to what our Party — APGA– represents.
“In line with APGA’s constitution, the Leadership of the Party shall set up a disciplinary committee to investigate the act, and if found wanting, appropriate sanctions shall be meted on him in line with the Constitution of APGA.
“All members of APGA and indeed all elected officials on the platform of our great party are expected to exhibit the highest standards of decorum, civility and integrity in all public and private engagements and our party shall not tolerate any verifiable conduct that is not in tandem with the ideals of our founding fathers.”
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