By Straightnews
A member of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Alex Ikwechegh, has tendered a public apology for assaulting an e-hailing (Bolt) driver who went to deliver a package to him.
Ikwechegh admitted that his behaviour did not meet the standards expected of a public official.
Recall that in a video that went viral on Monday, the distressed driver, Abuwatseya recorded the incident that took place between him and Ikwechegh at the lawmaker’s residence in Maitama, Abuja.
The video showed the visibly angry lawmaker repeatedly slapping and insulting the driver, allegedly because the driver had asked him to come out and collect the snail he was delivering.
Related news: Police Quiz Federal Lawmaker over assault on UBer driver
He also threatened to make the driver “disappear” without facing any consequences.
The Representative issued the public apology on Monday, saying, “As a public servant, I recognise 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.”
He said he regretted the harm and embarrassment his actions had caused Abuwatseya, his constituents, and the public.
He also confirmed his cooperation with the Nigerian Police, pledging to support their investigation and uphold accountability.
“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,” the statement read
He also applauded the Nigeria Police Force for upholding the law and protecting the rights of the citizens.
He stated, “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.”
Ikwechegh noted that he was 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.”
He, however, called on all Nigerians to join him in fostering a culture of respect, tolerance, and understanding.
“We must work together to build a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Thank you for your understanding and I hope that you will join me on this journey towards healing and growth,” Ikwechegh added.
House of Representatives reacts
Reacting, in a press statement issued by Akin Rotimi, Spokesman, House of Representatives on Monday night, the legislators said the the allegations of “assault are very serious and should not be treated with a levity hand.”
The statement, therefore, urged citizens to exercise patience as the Nigerian police already began investigating the matter.
The statement reads: “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 akintunde.rotimi@nass.gov.ng, akinrotimi@gmail.com, even as we continue to monitor the situation.
“We remain dedicated to upholding the values of accountability, transparency, and ethical behaviour that define the 10th Assembly, House of Representatives. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”
