‘I’m deeply sorry’ — lawmaker apologises for assaulting Bolt driver
I am deeply sorry for my actions and acknowledge that they were unacceptable and unbecoming of a public official.
Alex Ikwechegh, the lawmaker representing Aba north and south of Abia state in the house of representatives, says he is deeply sorry for his actions against Stephen Abuwatseya, a Bolt driver.
Ikwechegh, a member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), was seen in a viral video, allegedly assaulting the driver.
In the clips of the incident that happened on October 27 in the Maitama distric of Abuja, the lawmaker was hurling invective and expletives on the driver while threatening to “make him disappear”.
Shortly afterwards, the Nigeria Police force complaint response unit (NPF-CRU) said it has launched investigation into the case.
Olumuyiwa Adejobi, force spokesperson, said the driver reported the incident to the Maitama divisional headquarters.
On Monday, the federal capital territory (FCT) police command said Ikwechegh was in its custody answering questions concerning the incident.
Josephine Adeh, spokesperson of the police in the FCT, said in a statement that the command received a report at the Maitama divisional headquarters regarding an incident involving Abuwatseya and Ikwechegh.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that Mr Abuwatseya was delivering a package to Hon. Ikwegh when a dispute arose concerning the method of delivery,” the statement reads.
“During this altercation, Mr. Abuwatseya was reportedly physically assaulted.”
THE APOLOGY
However, in a public apology issued by himself, Ikwechegh said he was deeply sorry for his actions and “acknowledge that they were unacceptable and unbecoming of a public official”.
“I, Honourable Alex Ikwechegh, Member of the House of Representatives, wish to address a deeply disturbing incident that occurred at my residence recently,” the lawmaker wrote on Monday.
“A video has surfaced showing me engaging in unacceptable behavior towards an Uber driver who came to deliver a waybill for me. I am deeply sorry for my actions and acknowledge that they were unacceptable and unbecoming of a public official.
“As a public servant, I recognize the trust placed in me by my constituents and the Nigerian people. My behavior fell short of the standards expected of me, and for that, I am truly sorry. I understand that my actions have caused harm and embarrassment to the driver, my constituents, and the nation at large.
“I want to assure the public that I am fully cooperating with the Nigerian Police investigation into this matter. I support their efforts to ensure that justice is served and that those responsible are held accountable.
“I also appreciate the swift condemnation of my actions by my party and the Nigerian Police, demonstrating our collective commitment to upholding the law and protecting the rights of all citizens.
COMMITMENT TO CHANGE
He added that he would be engaging in community services focused on promoting respect, empathy and understanding.
“I am taking immediate steps to address the underlying issues that led to this incident. I am seeking professional counseling to ensure that such behavior never happens again,” Ikwechegh said.
“Additionally, I will be engaging in community service initiatives focused on promoting respect, empathy, and understanding.
“I urge all Nigerians to join me 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.
“Thank you for your understanding, and I hope that you will join me on this journey towards healing and growth.”
