The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested Hon. Alexander Ikwegh, a lawmaker representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency of Abia State, for allegedly assaulting a Bolt driver, Mr Stephen Abuwatseya.
In a viral video, the federal lawmaker was seen assaulting a Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has broken its silence on the Ikwegh episode.
In a statement on Monday evening, Rotimi Akin Rotimi, Jr, spokesman of the House of Representatives, said investigation was ongoing.
“The House of Representatives is monitoring media reports concerning an alleged incident involving Rep. Alex Ikwechegh (APGA, Abia). These reports, which have garnered widespread media coverage and public attention, detail accusations of a physical confrontation with an e-hailing driver, Citizen Stephen Abuwatseya, and the use of threatening language.”
“The 10th Assembly, House of Representatives, takes these allegations very seriously. As elected officials, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of ethical conduct and accountability in our official engagements and privately. Any behaviour that falls short of these standards is a matter of concern, and we are committed to addressing such issues with the utmost seriousness.
“We are aware that the matter is now before the Nigeria Police, and we urge the public to allow the due process of investigation to unfold. We welcome further engagement from the public on the subject, which can be shared via email at [email protected], [email protected], even as we continue to monitor the situation.
“We remain dedicated to upholding the values of accountability, transparency, and ethical behavior that define the 10th Assembly, House of Representatives. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”
A statement by the FCT Police Command’s spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, said the incident occurred when Abuwatseya delivered a package to Ikwegh’s residence, with a dispute arising over the delivery method.
Ikwegh allegedly slapped the driver and made derogatory comments about the Inspector General of Police.
The FCT Police Command expressed concern over Ikwegh’s attitude, stating that he is undergoing questioning at the Maitama Police Station.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that Mr Abuwatseya was delivering a package to Hon. Ikwegh when a dispute arose concerning the method of delivery. During this altercation, Mr. Abuwatseya was reportedly physically assaulted.
“The FCT Police Command expresses grave concern over Hon. Ikwegh’s dismissive attitude toward the office of the Inspector General of Police following the incident.
“After allegedly slapping the victim, he reportedly remarked with contempt, ‘You can go ahead and call the Inspector General of Police,’ demonstrating a troubling disregard for the authority of law enforcement.
“Currently, the suspect is at the Maitama Police Station undergoing questioning,” the FCT police said.
The incident took place on Sunday at Ikwegh’s Abuja residence. The Bolt driver, Mr. Abuwatseya, delivered a package to the lawmaker, but a dispute arose over the delivery method. Ikwegh allegedly slapped the driver.
“You are a common bolt driver, you are a poor man and you have pride,” the driver quoted the Abia State lawmaker as saying.
The driver was subsequently arrested and taken to the Maitama Police Station, where he was denied the right to receive calls.
Police officers at the station accused him of going to fight a “Senator” in his home and have refused to release his car.
