Driver Expresses Regret for Actions, Calls for Unity and Forgiveness
ABUJA — Stephen Abuwatseya, a Bolt driver who was assaulted by Alex Ikwechegh, a House of Representatives member representing Aba North/South in the National Assembly, has publicly apologized for his role in their recent altercation. In a video message released on Thursday and viewed by The Nation, Abuwatseya expressed remorse, attributing his actions to a misunderstanding that allegedly provoked the lawmaker.
“Good day, Nigerians. My name is Stephen Abuwatseya. I had a misunderstanding with Rt. Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh a few days ago. I actually want to apologize to him for whatever I must have said or done to provoke him to that level of anger,” Abuwatseya stated.
The Bolt driver also urged Nigerians to foster unity, transcending divisions based on religion, tribe, or region. “Please, Nigerians, let’s forgive and forget, as it’s even contained in our Lord’s Prayer, that ‘Lord, please forgive us, as we forgive those who trespass against us.’ For there is no justice without forgiveness. Thank you very much.” Abuwatseya further expressed appreciation for the support shown by his family and well-wishers throughout the ordeal.
The incident, which occurred on October 28 in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, sparked widespread public attention after a video of the altercation went viral. The footage depicted Ikwechegh slapping Abuwatseya, allegedly after tensions arose when the driver requested the lawmaker to personally collect a snail delivery from his vehicle and make a payment. The lawmaker, appearing visibly upset, deemed the request disrespectful, given his social standing.
In the video, Ikwechegh was heard speaking with the vendor who arranged the delivery. “How can this stupid idiot come to me and tell me that I am supposed to come and meet him in his car and pick up a snail I am buying from you?” he fumed. “I can make this man disappear in the whole of Nigeria and nothing will happen.” He went on to threaten physical violence, despite later learning that their exchange had been recorded. “My name is Honourable Alexander Mascot Ikwechegh, I am a member of the House of Reps, tell them. Call the Inspector General of Police, let him come,” he told the driver.
Following public backlash, Ikwechegh issued a statement on Instagram, apologizing to the driver, the Nigerian Police Force, and the National Assembly for his conduct. He acknowledged that his behavior fell short of the standards expected of a public servant, regardless of any provocation.
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