House of Representatives member Alex Ikwechegh has humorously embraced the nickname “the man who makes things disappear,” which arose from a widely publicized confrontation with a Bolt driver in Abuja in October 2024.
Speaking as a guest on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Tuesday, the lawmaker, who represents Aba North and South Federal Constituency under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), reflected on the incident, describing it as a learning experience.
“What happened was quite unfortunate, but I take it as an opportunity to build a relationship with the young man involved,” Ikwechegh said.
“Today, we are friends. The matter went to court, but it was struck out for lack of merit.”
Acknowledging the public attention the event brought him, he added, “The whole world now knows me as the man who makes things disappear. But that video doesn’t define who I am. I’ve been in public service for years without any scandal. This was a low moment, but it’s in the past now.”
Last October, Ikwechegh faced widespread backlash when a video surfaced online showing him assaulting a Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, over a disagreement about the delivery of snails ordered by the lawmaker.
In the video, Ikwechegh was seen slapping the driver and issuing threats, saying, “Can you imagine this rat? I can make this man disappear in the whole of Nigeria, and nothing will happen.”
The confrontation reportedly began when the Bolt driver arrived at the lawmaker’s residence and requested payment.
Ikwechegh accused the driver of disrespect for not stepping out of the car to deliver the goods.
The video sparked outrage among Nigerians, with many calling for justice.
The lawmaker was arrested, and the police arraigned him in court.
However, Ikwechegh later apologized to both the Inspector General of Police and the driver.
The matter was resolved out of court, with Ikwechegh compensating the victim.
He also revealed that he had since developed a friendship with the driver and even established connections with his pastor and bishop.
Reflecting on the incident, Ikwechegh said, “The part of the video everyone saw was a low moment for me, but it doesn’t capture the full story. Actions preempt reactions. However, I’ve learned from it, and we’ve all moved on.”
