House of Representatives member, Honourable Alex Ikwechegh, has publicly apologized following an incident in which he allegedly assaulted an e-hailing driver at his residence in Abuja.
The driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, recorded the confrontation on Sunday and posted the video online, where it rapidly caught public attention.
Hon. Ikwechegh, representing Aba North and Aba South in Abia State, faced swift criticism as the video spread across social media platforms.
In response, he released an official apology, acknowledging that his actions fell short of the standards expected of someone in public office.
“As a public servant, I recognise the trust placed in me by my constituents and the Nigerian people,” Hon. Ikwechegh said.
“My behaviour fell short of the standards expected of me, and for that, I am truly sorry.”
The video shared by Abuwatseya shows Hon. Ikwechegh in an aggressive exchange with the driver, who had come to deliver a package to the legislator’s home in Maitama, Abuja.
Public outrage surged, with citizens calling for accountability and justice for the driver, whose recorded video captured the tense moments of the confrontation.
In his statement, Hon. Ikwechegh admitted to having acted inappropriately, expressing regret for the harm his actions had caused not only to Abuwatseya but also to his constituents and the broader Nigerian public.
“I understand that my actions have caused harm and embarrassment to the driver, my constituents, and the nation at large,” he said.
He added that he was cooperating fully with the Nigerian Police as they investigate the incident, assuring that he supports efforts to bring justice.
“I want to assure the public that I am fully cooperating with the Nigerian Police investigation into this matter,” his statement read.
He further expressed support for both his party and the police in their efforts to uphold the law and protect citizens’ rights.
Hon. Ikwechegh’s response highlighted his recognition of the severity of his actions.
His statement continued, “I support their efforts to ensure that justice is served and that those responsible are held accountable.”
The lawmaker’s apology also included a promise to address any underlying issues that may have contributed to the incident.
He stated that he was pursuing professional counseling to prevent such behaviour from recurring.
“I am seeking professional counselling to ensure that such behaviour never happens again,” he revealed.
As part of his efforts to make amends, Hon. Ikwechegh announced that he would engage in community service initiatives.
He specified that these initiatives would focus on promoting respect, empathy, and understanding within the community.
“I will be engaging in community service initiatives focused on promoting respect, empathy, and understanding,” he added.
This public apology and commitment to self-improvement have stirred mixed reactions from Nigerians, with some commending his honesty while others questioned whether his actions warranted further accountability.
Others voiced similar concerns, suggesting that public officeholders should be role models for responsible and respectful behaviour.
Hon. Ikwechegh’s case has brought to light the expectations and pressures placed on Nigerian lawmakers to uphold public trust.
As representatives of the people, Nigerian lawmakers are often scrutinized for their actions both in and out of office.
Hon. Ikwechegh’s apology reflects his awareness of the responsibility that comes with his position, yet the public remains critical of his initial behaviour.
Following the incident, Ikwechegh urged Nigerians to join him in promoting a culture of respect, tolerance, and understanding.
“We must work together to build a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect,” he urged in his statement.
He concluded with a call for unity, expressing his hope that Nigerians would support him on his path to personal growth.
“Thank you for your understanding, and I hope that you will join me on this journey towards healing and growth,” he said.
In response to the apology, human rights advocates have called for a closer examination of how officials handle incidents of this nature.
The public’s demand for accountability highlights a rising expectation for transparency among Nigerian leaders.
Some citizens have called for the House of Representatives to look into the matter and consider disciplinary measures.
This incident has reignited a discussion around accountability for Nigerian politicians, particularly when it comes to how they interact with members of the public.
The Nigerian Police have confirmed that they are conducting an investigation to uncover the full details of the encounter.