The lawmaker representing the Aba North/South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Alexander Mascot Ikwechegh, has tendered public apology for assaulting an e-hailing service driver, Stephen Abuwatseya on Sunday night in Maitama, Abuja.
Ikwechegh also apologized for his verbal assaults and disparaging innuendos to the office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
The lawmaker was caught on video verbally and physically assaulting the bolt driver for telling him to come and pick up his package from the car.
Ikwechegh, according to available information, ordered snails from a vendor who sent the package to him through the e-hailing delivery service.
A disagreement however ensued when the driver arrived at the delivery location which led to the lawmaker calling the driver unprintable names, refusing to pay him for the service, allegedly tearing his shirt and slapping him three times.
While the driver was making a recording of his ordeal, the angry lawmaker boasted that he could “disappear” him and nothing would happen, further mocking the driver that he can the IGP (and nothing will happen).
Recordings of the incident posted on the social media generated public outcry, just as the police invited the lawmaker for questioning and arrested him.
Ikwechegh apologized to the driver and allegedly offered to pay his October salary to assuage the driver.
He also posted an apology letter he read on the floor of the House of Representatives on his Facebook page on Tuesday, regretting his actions.
He wrote: “Rt. Honourable Speaker, Honorable Members, I rise on a Point of Personal Explanation to address an incident that took place on Sunday, October 27, involving myself and Citizen Stephen Abuwatseya, an e-hailing cab driver.
“What began as a misunderstanding regrettably escalated into actions and remarks that I deeply regret and which do not reflect the values I hold dear nor those I aim to embody as a Member of this esteemed House. I take full responsibility for my words and actions in that moment, recognizing the distress this exchange has caused Citizen Abuwatseya, his family, and the public.
“As a public servant, I am acutely aware of the weight of my role and the impact my words and actions can have on others. Since the incident, Citizen Abuwatseya and I have engaged in alternative dispute resolution methods, and I am pleased to report that we have reached a respectful and constructive resolution which I am committed to following through.
“Furthermore, I extend my heartfelt apologies to the Inspector General of Police for any unintended disparagement my remarks may have caused to his person, his office, and the institution he represents. I regret any discomfort my words may have generated and reaffirm my respect for the Nigerian Police Force and the Inspector General’s dedication to maintaining law and order.
“Additionally, I apologize 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 recognize that my actions reflect not only on myself but also on this esteemed institution and the public’s trust in us as representatives.
“This incident has been a humbling reminder of the necessity for restraint and self-control, especially in difficult circumstances. I am committed to using this experience as an opportunity for growth, both as a citizen and as a more empathetic representative of the people.
“This experience is particularly disheartening for me, given my recent work in constituency engagement and my efforts to drive positive change in areas like health, agriculture, education, and economic empowerment. It serves as a reminder that as public office holders, we are held to higher standards of conduct and rhetoric, even under provocation.
“Mr. Speaker, Honorable Members, I remain committed to learning from this experience and to growing into a better citizen and a more responsible representative. I thank you for allowing me to address this matter and for your understanding as I work to rebuild the public’s trust in my commitment to serve with integrity and humility.”