Reps Investigate Alex Ikwechegh Over Misconduct

Investigation Ordered into Lawmaker's Alleged Misconduct

Ihonbvere emphasized that past assemblies have made efforts to improve the public image of the...

House of Reps investigates Abia lawmaker Alex Ikwechegh for alleged assault on Bolt driver. Committee on Ethics & Privileges to report back within 2 weeks.

The House of Representatives has launched an investigation into Alex Ikwechegh, a representative for Aba North and South Federal Constituency, Abia State, following an alleged assault on a Bolt cab driver in Abuja on October 27. This decision came after House Leader Julius Ihonbvere invoked the House's privilege rule during the plenary session on October 29, highlighting the need to protect the House's reputation.

Ihonbvere emphasized that past assemblies have made efforts to improve the public image of the institution in interactions with the broader community. This investigation aims to address the recent misconduct and ensure that the House maintains its integrity. The incident has sparked concern, and the investigation will likely review the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault.

It's worth noting that Ikwechegh's position as a representative has been subject to controversy in the past. Earlier in 2023, the National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal sacked Emeka Nnamani, the initial winner of the Aba North/Aba South Federal Constituency seat, and ordered a certificate of return to be issued to Ikwechegh. However, this current investigation focuses specifically on the recent alleged assault incident.

“It is the way you do your house, the role you have to manage your house, that outsiders will see, and give respect to the problems in your house,” Ihonbvere said.

“In fact, Mr. Speaker, the tendency has been for people, particularly in certain sectors, to say how to respect the existence of the house rules.

“In this house, we come from different professional backgrounds and different cultures, and many of us have invested so heavily into improving the reputation before we came here. It is that reputation that we brought to the Representatives, that has a huge impact on education.

“We all have to meditate where we go, who we talk to, how we talk to them, how we relate to them. And sometimes you do not have to just allow this to happen. Sometimes you have to help the institution, and we have the responsibility to do this.

“To lead this institution to where it can go, where we can handle it, so that those that will come to the house, will have a place to be part of us. Our goal is to have together a value that stands.

“I want to say that what has been in the news, and what we have learned about it, is that one of our members was involved with a citizen.”

Alex Ikwechegh, a representative for Aba North and South Federal Constituency, apologized to the House for his misconduct and derogatory language towards a Bolt cab driver, stating the issue has been resolved with the driver. This incident highlights the importance of lawmakers' conduct, as emphasized by Babajimi Benson, representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency of Lagos State. Benson noted that Parliament faces intense criticism, making it essential for lawmakers to be mindful of their actions and remember their accountability to the Nigerian public.

Benson's statement underscores the significance of maintaining a positive public image for the institution. As a representative, Ikwechegh's actions, though regrettable, have been addressed through his apology and resolution with the driver. Moving forward, it's crucial for lawmakers to prioritize their conduct and recognize the impact it has on the public's perception of the institution.

In a similar vein, Ikwechegh has been involved in other initiatives, such as tackling the CBN Governor over foreign exchange and electricity issues. Additionally, he has expressed support for Governor Alex Chioma Otti's efforts in Abia State, emphasizing the importance of collaboration for progress. These actions demonstrate Ikwechegh's commitment to serving his constituency and addressing pressing issues.

“Mr. Speaker, our elders have always said that the day we stop learning is the day we die. They also say that we learn from mistakes and not from successes. However, Parliament is one of the most hated institutions in Nigeria today,” he said.

“We are watched morning, afternoon and night, even though most of us have very noble intentions for the people of Nigeria. We should always be guided and also know that we are not an authority over Nigerians, Nigerians are an authority over US.

“They should be treated with dignity, with respect and with kindness at all times. So if we abide by this politically, Mr. Speaker, we will begin and continue to change that heavily battered image, the garment of which we all wear. So I call on you, Mr. Speaker, I raise my case on these three.”

Deputy Speaker Rep. Benjamin Kalu emphasized that the House of Representatives takes its rules seriously and will launch investigations whenever its integrity is challenged. This stance underscores the House's commitment to maintaining transparency and accountability, especially when faced with potentially damaging allegations.

As the Deputy Speaker, Kalu brings a wealth of experience to the table, having served as the Spokesperson for the 9th House of Representatives and representing the Bende Federal Constituency. His strong leadership and legislative background ensure that the House's integrity remains a top priority.

“The truth is that we cannot act according to our rules. We cannot act according to what anyone wants us to do. We are guided by our rules. I also maintain that if at any point we feel that the integrity, the dignity of the parliament, have been threatened, or scratched, we will investigate through our impartial structure in the eyes of principles of Nigerian justice, which is fair dialogue.

“That is what we put in our rules. It is not good for us to judge, you know, ahead of time and take the last decision. Therefore, in line with the prayers of the leader of the house, that this matter be referred to the committee of eighties and privilege for him to be heard.”

The House of Representatives has taken swift action, unanimously approving a motion to investigate the alleged assault on a Bolt driver by Representative Alex Ikwechegh. The Committee on Ethics and Privileges will now conduct a thorough investigation and report back to the House within two weeks, paving the way for further legislative action. This decisive move demonstrates the House's commitment to addressing misconduct and ensuring accountability among its members. The investigation's findings will be crucial in determining the next steps and potential consequences for Representative Ikwechegh.