In a twist of events that has stirred public reactions, Alex Ikwechegh, a member of the House of Representatives representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency, has claimed he is now friends with Stephen Abuwatseya, the Bolt driver he was caught on camera assaulting in 2024.
The incident, which sparked nationwide condemnation, was captured in a video showing Ikwechegh slapping and berating Abuwatseya over a delivery disagreement. At the time, the lawmaker referred to the driver as a “rat” and even made veiled threats, claiming he could “make him disappear.”
Speaking during an interview on Channels TV on January 28, 2025, Ikwechegh described the episode as a “low moment” but expressed relief that it had turned into a platform for reconciliation and relationship-building.
A Viral Controversy
The altercation began when Abuwatseya arrived at Ikwechegh’s Abuja residence to deliver a package containing snails. The driver reportedly asked the lawmaker to step out of his house to collect the delivery, a request that Ikwechegh perceived as disrespectful. This led to the shocking altercation, with Ikwechegh accusing the driver of “desecrating the sanctity” of his home.
The viral video ignited outrage, with Nigerians questioning the culture of impunity among political elites. Critics lambasted the lawmaker for his abusive language and physical assault, labeling his actions as a blatant abuse of power.
Initial Apologies and Public Backlash
Under intense pressure, Ikwechegh issued a public apology shortly after the incident, admitting his actions were unbecoming. He claimed the matter had been resolved through “alternative dispute resolution methods.” However, skepticism lingered among Nigerians, many of whom felt the apology was a public relations stunt to mitigate the backlash.
“I felt disrespected in my home,” Ikwechegh had stated at the time, defending his reaction. But his justification only fueled further criticism, with some accusing him of exploiting his position to avoid accountability.
“We Are Now Friends”
Reflecting on the matter a year later, Ikwechegh expressed remorse and revealed that the incident had led to an unexpected friendship with Abuwatseya and even the latter’s pastor.
“What happened was quite unfortunate,” Ikwechegh admitted during the interview. “But I take it as an avenue to build a relationship with the young man. Today, we are friends. It was taken to court, but the case was struck out for lack of merit.”
He further added, “The video that everyone saw was a low moment. People don’t know what happened before that reaction. Actions preempt reactions. But whatever anyone saw is not indicative of who I am.”
Legal Proceedings and Public Sentiment
The court’s decision to strike out the case has raised eyebrows, with many Nigerians questioning whether justice was truly served. “If this had happened in a Western country, his career would be over,” said a commentator on social media. Others lamented that the Nigerian justice system often favors the powerful over the vulnerable.
Ikwechegh, however, maintained that he and Abuwatseya had moved past the incident. “The young man is my friend now,” he said. “I’m also close to his bishop. We’ve turned this into something positive.”
Despite his claims of reconciliation, public opinion remains divided. Critics have accused Ikwechegh of coercing Abuwatseya into submission, while some have praised him for owning up to his mistakes and attempting to make amends.
A Broader Reflection
The episode has reignited debates about accountability among Nigeria’s political elite. Instances of abuse of power and public displays of impunity are not new in the country, where the phrase “Do you know who I am?” often precedes acts of intimidation by those in positions of authority.
“This isn’t just about one lawmaker,” said political analyst Mallam Idris. “It’s a reflection of a larger problem. Many politicians believe they are above the law, and incidents like this reinforce that perception.”
Reactions from Nigerians
Social media has been abuzz with mixed reactions to Ikwechegh’s recent statements. “He’s just trying to salvage his reputation,” wrote one Twitter user. “This so-called friendship is nothing but damage control.”
Others were more forgiving, arguing that everyone deserves a second chance. “Anyone can mess up,” said another commenter. “What matters is how you handle it afterwards. Kudos to him for making amends.”
A Lesson in Leadership?
For Ikwechegh, the incident has been a lesson in humility and emotional regulation. As he navigates his political career amidst this controversy, he faces the challenge of regaining public trust.
“My focus now is on serving my constituents and ensuring that incidents like this never happen again,” he said during the interview.
Whether Nigerians will accept this reconciliation story remains uncertain. For now, the lawmaker’s actions serve as a reminder of the high expectations placed on public officials and the scrutiny they face when they fall short.
