The House of Representatives has condemned the assault on a ride-hailing driver by one of its members.
A video of Alex Ikwechegh assaulting Stephen Abuwatseya and issuing threats went viral, prompting widespread condemnation from Nigerians.
Hours after the video surfaced, the House of Representatives expressed concern over the incident, which it described as a matter it takes “seriously.
House of Representatives, National Assembly
Office of the House Spokesman
Official Press Statement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Response to Allegations of Assault Involving Rep. Alex Ikwechegh (APGA, Abia)
A Thread 🧵 #HouseNGR pic.twitter.com/c0CYwsIMjo
— Nigeria House of Representatives (@HouseNGR) October 28, 2024
“These reports, which have garnered significant media and public attention, detail allegations of a physical confrontation with an e-hailing driver, Citizen Stephen Abuwatseya, and the use of threatening language,” House spokesman Akin Rotimi Jr said in a late Monday statement.
“The 10th Assembly, House of Representatives, takes these allegations very seriously. As elected representatives, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of ethical conduct and accountability in both our public roles and personal conduct. Any behaviour falling short of these standards is of grave concern, and we are committed to addressing such issues with the utmost seriousness.
We are aware that the matter is now with the Nigeria Police, and we urge the public to allow due process and a full investigation to proceed. We welcome further input from the public on the matter, which can be shared via email at [email protected], [email protected], as we continue to monitor the situation closely.
“We remain dedicated to upholding the values of accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct that define the 10th Assembly, House of Representatives. Further updates will be provided as more information emerges.”
Following the development, police authorities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) confirmed that the lawmaker from Abia State is currently in custody.
“The suspect is presently at the Maitama Police Station undergoing questioning,” the police said in a statement.