I'm sorry, lawmaker who assaulted cab driver apologises

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Embattled lawmaker, Alex Ikwechegh, who represents Aba North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has admitted that
he was wrong for assaulting Stephen Abuwatseya, a Bolt driver.

Hon. Ikwechegh was said to have
slapped the Bolt driver, in Abuja, during the delivery of a package to the lawmaker in Maitama area of Abuja.

On Tuesday morning, the lawmaker indicated that he and Abuwatseya had reached a respectful resolution, which he would keep.

The lawmaker also apologised for dragging the name of Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun during the disagreement with the driver on Sunday.

The statement, on Facebook, read in part, “I sincerely apologize for my words and actions during this incident. I recognise the distress and frustration this has caused Citizen Abuwatseya, his family, and the public at large. As a public servant, I understand the weight of my role and how my words can impact others.

“While I am human and not infallible, I remain accountable for my actions. Citizen Abuwatseya and I have explored alternative dispute resolution methods to address this issue and have reached a respectful resolution, which I am committed to following through.

“Furthermore, I extend my heartfelt apologies to the Inspector General of Police, recognising the unintended disparagement my remarks may have caused to his person, his office, and the entire institution. I reaffirm my respect for the Nigerian Police Force and the Inspector General’s commitment to maintaining law and order.”

He also apologised to the National Assembly (NASS) and House of Representatives.

The lawmaker’s apology comes 48 hours after he slapped Abuwatseya multiple times and threatened to disappear him without consequences.

Videos of this assault went viral on Monday morning, prompting the police to invite both men for questioning. The NASS also reacted via an official statement. They said they would cooperate with the police’s investigation.

Full Press Statement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

*Apology Regarding Recent Interaction with Citizen Stephen Abuwatseya*

*Abuja, FCT | Tuesday, October 29, 2024* – I wish to address an incident that occurred on Sunday involving an unfortunate exchange with Citizen Stephen Abuwatseya, an e-hailing cab driver.

What began as a misunderstanding escalated into actions and remarks I deeply regret, which do not reflect the values and character I strive to uphold, both as a citizen and as a representative of the people.

I sincerely apologize for my words and actions during this incident. I recognize the distress and frustration this has caused Citizen Abuwatseya, his family, and the public at large. As a public servant, I understand the weight of my role and how my words can impact others.

While I am human and not infallible, I remain accountable for my actions. Citizen Abuwatseya and I have explored alternative dispute resolution methods to address this issue and have reached a respectful resolution, which I am committed to following through.

Furthermore, I extend my heartfelt apologies to the Inspector General of Police, recognizing the unintended disparagement my remarks may have caused to his person, his office, and the entire institution. I reaffirm my respect for the Nigerian Police Force and the Inspector General’s commitment to maintaining law and order.

Additionally, I extend my sincere apologies to the leadership and members of this House and the National Assembly as a whole for any deficit in goodwill this incident may have caused. I am aware that my actions reflect not only on myself but also on this esteemed institution and the trust that the public places in us.

This incident has been a humbling reminder of the necessity for restraint and self-control, especially in challenging circumstances. I sincerely apologize for any pain or discomfort my actions may have caused, and I am committed to learning from this experience to grow into a better citizen and a more empathetic representative of the people.

This experience is particularly disheartening given my recent achievements in constituency engagement, including many interventions in health, agriculture, education, and economic empowerment for my people. It is a teachable moment not only for me but also for many in the political sphere, as we are held to higher standards of conduct and rhetoric, even under provocation.

I am committed to using this as an opportunity for growth and as a call to be better, and do better.

Signed:

Rep. Alexander Mascot Ikwechegh