Abia Rep Alex Ikwechegh Faces Backlash After Assaulting Abuja Driver

Nigerians are expressing outrage after a video surfaced showing Alex Ikwechegh, a member of the House of Representatives from Abia State, physically assaulting an e-hailing driver in Abuja. The incident occurred on October 27, 2024, at Ikwechegh’s residence in Maitama, where the driver had arrived to deliver a package.

The Incident

In the viral video, Ikwechegh can be seen confronting the driver, whose name has been identified as Stephen Abuwatseya, after he requested that the lawmaker come outside to collect the delivery. The visibly agitated representative accused the driver of disrespecting him due to his social status. As tensions escalated, Ikwechegh slapped Abuwatseya multiple times and made threatening remarks, stating, “I can make this man disappear in Nigeria and nothing will happen.”

The confrontation took a disturbing turn as Ikwechegh boasted about his power, saying he could have the driver beaten or locked up in his generator house. He further insulted Abuwatseya, calling him derogatory names and asserting his authority as a public official.

Public Outcry

The footage quickly spread across social media platforms, igniting widespread condemnation from Nigerians who decried the assault as an abuse of power. Many users expressed their shock and anger at the lawmaker’s behavior, labeling it as classism and oppression. Comments flooded in, with one user stating, “This is pure oppression and wickedness,” while others called for justice and accountability for Ikwechegh.

Critics emphasised that such actions reflect a broader issue of political figures abusing their positions to intimidate ordinary citizens. Some netizens suggested that Abuwatseya should seek legal action against the lawmaker, seeing this as an opportunity to challenge the status quo.

Official Response

In light of the incident, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) announced that it is investigating the assault. The police confirmed that they received an official report from Abuwatseya at the Maitama Divisional Headquarters and are actively handling the case. They also warned against using the name or office of the Inspector General of Police to intimidate others, reinforcing their commitment to impartiality in law enforcement.

Broader Implications

This incident has sparked discussions about the conduct of public officials in Nigeria and their treatment of citizens. Many are calling for stricter regulations and accountability measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The backlash against Ikwechegh serves as a reminder of the need for ethical leadership and respect for all individuals, regardless of their social or economic status.

As investigations continue into Alex Ikwechegh’s actions, the incident underscores a growing demand among Nigerians for accountability from their elected representatives. The public’s response reflects a broader frustration with political power dynamics and a call for respect and dignity in interactions between citizens and those in positions of authority. Only time will tell how this situation unfolds and whether it will lead to meaningful changes in governance and public conduct in Nigeria.

By Joseph Johnston,
Youth Editor,
Egogonews Hub

Please follow, like and share:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *