Reps Prioritize Internal Rules Over Public Demand for Abia Lawmaker's Suspension

Nigerians Demand Justice, But Reps Refuse to Suspend Abia Lawmaker Over Assault

“I can make you disappear in Nigeria, and nothing will happen.” 

Abuja Assault Saga: Rep. Ikwechegh Apologizes, Claims Resolution with Victim

The House of Representatives has taken swift action against Alex Ikwechegh, the representative for Aba North/Aba South Federal Constituency of Abia, by referring him to the Committee on Ethics and Privileges. This decision follows allegations of assault against a Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, which reportedly occurred last week in Abuja.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu made it clear that the House won't rush into suspending Ikwechegh without following due process, despite public demands for immediate action. This move came after House Leader Julius Ihonvbere brought up the issue during a session, informing members about the incident.

It's worth noting that Ikwechegh's alleged assault wasn't just against anyone - it was against a Bolt driver, highlighting concerns about the safety and well-being of ride-hailing service providers. The incident has sparked widespread attention, and many are watching to see how the Committee on Ethics and Privileges will handle this sensitive matter.

Highlights 

• Incident: Alleged assault on Bolt driver Stephen Abuwatseya by Alex Ikwechegh
• Action: House of Representatives refers Ikwechegh to Committee on Ethics and Privileges
• Location: Incident occurred in Abuja last week
• Process: Deputy Speaker emphasizes adherence to established rules before potential suspension.

A video has been circulating online showing Alex Ikwechegh, a member of the House of Representatives, verbally and physically assaulting a Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya. The altercation allegedly began over claims of disrespect. In the footage, Ikwechegh is heard threatening Abuwatseya, saying, “I can make you disappear in Nigeria, and nothing will happen.” He even went as far as daring the driver to contact the Inspector General of Police.

This incident has sparked outrage, and House Leader Julius Ihonvbere has strongly condemned Ikwechegh's actions, labeling them an affront to the integrity of the House and the moral standards of the Nigerian people. Ihonvbere has requested that the matter be referred to the Committee on Ethics and Privileges for further investigation.

As a result of this incident, Ikwechegh was referred to the Committee on Ethics and Privileges by the House of Representatives. This move aims to address the gravity of the situation and ensure that appropriate action is taken. The incident has also raised concerns about the behavior of public officials and their treatment of ordinary citizens.

Additional Highlights:

Incident: Alex Ikwechegh, a House of Representatives member, was caught on video verbally and physically assaulting a Bolt driver.

Allegation: The altercation began over claims of disrespect.

Threats: Ikwechegh threatened the driver, saying he could make him “disappear” in Nigeria.

Condemnation: House Leader Julius Ihonvbere condemned Ikwechegh's actions.

Action: The House of Representatives referred Ikwechegh to the Committee on Ethics and Privileges for investigation.

“What has been in the news, we all probably know about it that our member, Ikwechegh, had an altercation with a cab driver. It is not my job to begin to analyse the video that we have all seen or to analyse the commentary,” he said.

“But I have a responsibility to say this

House will not sit and accommodate any aberration. In fact, if you look at Order 5(e), it sets out clearly how the House should deal with any sort of aberration or misconduct by a member of the House.

“I am on my feet today to plead with my colleagues and Mr. Speaker, that this matter is serious enough and it impinges on our collective integrity. It attacks the conscience of the average Nigerian. It derogates on the image and the expectation of the public of what we stand for as a House. We have to demonstrate to the public that voted for us that we recognise them. We are pained. We are offended. We are not happy about it.”

“The personal explanation of Ikwechegh was very touching. The public is expecting us to act in a particular way. But the truth be told that we can only act according to our rules. We cannot act according to what everybody wants us to do. Our rules dictate that if, at any time, we feel the integrity, the dignity of the parliament has been threatened, we investigate through our internal structure, in the eyes of the principle of natural justice, which is fair hearing. That is what we put in our rules. It is not good for us to judge ahead of time and take a rash decision,” the deputy speaker said.

Alex Ikwechegh, a House of Representatives member, took to the floor to deliver a heartfelt apology, seeking forgiveness from Nigerians for his recent actions. In a lengthy, prepared speech, he expressed regret for his words and actions, particularly the altercation with Stephen Abuwatseya, an Abuja e-hailing driver. Ikwechegh revealed that he had reached an understanding with Abuwatseya, marking a positive step towards resolution.

During Tuesday's plenary session, presided over by Kalu, Ikwechegh's speech was met with acknowledgment. Kalu described the apology as heartfelt and emphasized the House's commitment to fairness, stating that decisions won't be based solely on public expectations. This development comes after Abuwatseya filed a petition against Ikwechegh, accusing him of grievous assault, abuse of power, attempted murder, and threat to life.

Pointers:

Apology: Ikwechegh apologized for his actions and words.

Regret: He expressed regret for the altercation with Abuwatseya.

Understanding: Ikwechegh claimed to have reached an understanding with Abuwatseya.

House's Stance: The House won't act solely based on public expectations.

This situation highlights the importance of accountability and empathy in public service.

“Therefore, in line with the prayers of the leader of the House, this matter should be referred to the Committee on Ethics and Privilege for him to be heard. His appeal was very emotional, very touching; it shows remorse. I was touched hearing it from here. And that is not enough. I know you were touched as well. I know Nigerians watching him has seen a man that is remorseful.

“But our rules must be complied with. And that our rule is for him to go and sit with the committee on Ethics and Privilege. They will hear him and then report back to the House for us to take a decision; instead of going into suspension like everybody expects from us.”

Ikwechegh made a heartfelt apology to Nigerians, seeking forgiveness for his recent mistakes. In a lengthy, prepared speech, he expressed deep regret for his hurtful words and actions, showing accountability for his wrongdoing. This courageous move came after the House leader's remarks and demonstrated Ikwechegh's willingness to make amends. He also revealed that he had made peace with Abuwatseya, indicating a positive step towards healing and reconciliation.