Advertorial
A Kuje Magistrate Court in the Federal Capital Territory has set November 8 for the trial of Alexander Ikwechegh, the House of Representatives member representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency in Abia State.
He was granted bail of N500,000 after being arraigned on charges of assault.
Ikwechegh appeared before Magistrate Abubakar Umar Sai’id on Wednesday, facing accusations of assaulting a Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, at his residence in Abuja.
Advertorial
He pleaded not guilty to the charges, which include abuse of office, assault, and threats to life, as brought forth by Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
Following the plea, Ikwechegh’s counsel requested bail, which the court granted under specific conditions: two sureties residing within the court’s jurisdiction, each also required to provide utility bills as proof of residence.
The court then adjourned the case until November 8.
Advertorial
The incident gained significant attention after a video surfaced on social media, showing Ikwechegh allegedly assaulting Abuwatseya.
In the footage, he is seen slapping the driver multiple times while threatening him with severe consequences.
In response to the incident, the civil society organization Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) condemned Ikwechegh’s actions, describing them as a blatant abuse of power commonly seen among politicians.
Executive Director Okechukwu Nwanguma emphasized that this incident reflects poorly not only on Ikwechegh but on the entire House of Representatives.
Advertorial
Nwanguma stated, “The brutal treatment of Uber driver Stephen Abuwatseya by federal lawmaker Alex Ikwechegh is a stark example of the abuse of power prevalent in Nigeria’s political landscape. Such behavior highlights a disturbing trend where officials operate above the law, demonstrating a lack of respect for citizens’ rights.”
He further noted that while the House’s decision to investigate the matter is a positive step, it remains uncertain whether this will lead to meaningful accountability.
Advertorial
He urged that justice be served not just for Abuwatseya but for all victims of similar abuses, calling for reforms that prioritize human rights and the rule of law in Nigeria.
