By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The House of Representatives has reacted to the video making the round involving one of its members, Mr Alex Ikwechegh and a ride-hailing, Bolt, driver, Mr Stephen Abuwatseya.
On Sunday, the lawmaker slapped and humiliated the driver who brought a package he ordered from a vendor.
The Abia State federal legislator said the Bolt driver insulted him by asking him to come to his car for his package, noting that by his status, Mr Abuwatseya should have come down from his vehicle to hand over the item to him.
He then threatened to “make him disappear” in Nigeria and nothing would happen and even the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr Kayode Egbetokun, cannot do anything to him.
After the matter was reported, and there was outrage from Nigerians, the police apprehended the lawmaker for questioning.
On Monday night, the lower chamber of the National Assembly said it was monitoring the issue, appealing to members of the public to await the outcome of the investigation by the police.
“The House of Representatives is monitoring media reports concerning an alleged incident involving Rep. Alex Ikwechegh (APGA, Abia). These reports, which have garnered widespread media coverage and public attention, detail accusations of a physical confrontation with an e-hailing driver, Citizen Stephen Abuwatseya, and the use of threatening language.
“The 10th Assembly, House of Representatives, takes these allegations very seriously. As elected officials, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of ethical conduct and accountability in our official and private engagements. Any behaviour that falls short of these standards is a matter of concern, and we are committed to addressing such issues with the utmost seriousness.
“We are aware that the matter is now before the Nigeria Police, and we urge the public to allow the due process of investigation to unfold.
“We welcome further engagement from the public on the subject, which can be shared via email at [email protected], [email protected], even as we continue to monitor the situation.
“We remain dedicated to upholding the values of accountability, transparency, and ethical behaviour that define the 10th Assembly, House of Representatives. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available,” the statement signed by the spokesman of the green arm of the parliament, Mr Akin Rotimi, said.
