Alex Ikwechegh: Bolt driver must get justice, says RULAAC
By Jeffrey Agbo
Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has called for justice for the Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, who was allegedly assaulted last week by a member of the House of Representatives, Alex Ikwechegh.
In a statement signed by the centre’s executive director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, and made available to TheNiche on Wednesday, RULAAC said the treatment of Mr Abuwatseya by the lawmaker is an example of abuse of power prevalent within Nigeria’s political system.
The statement said, “The recent incident involving Federal Lawmaker Alex Ikwecheghi’s brutal treatment of Uber driver Mr. Stephen Abuwatseya is a glaring example of the abuse of power that permeates Nigeria’s political landscape. Ikwecheghi’s actions, including verbal and physical assault, as well as intimidation of the victim, reveal a profound lack of humility and respect for the rights of others that should be expected from someone in a public office.
READ ALSO:
Police begin prosecution of Rep member Alex Ikwechegh over assault of Bolt driver
“This incident not only shames Ikwecheghi but also reflects poorly on the House of Representatives, the police, and the broader political system. The indiscriminate use of power to silence and control vulnerable citizens showcases a troubling trend among officials who seem to operate above the law. The complacency of the police in this matter raises serious concerns about their integrity and commitment to justice, as they appear more willing to serve influential individuals than to uphold the rule of law.”
RULAAC praised the House of Representatives over its decision to probe Ikwechegh, adding that the matter must be logically concluded to restore public confidence in governance.
“While the House of Representatives’ decision to investigate this behavior is a positive step, it remains to be seen whether meaningful accountability will follow. Historical precedents suggest a risk of sweeping the issue under the rug once public outrage subsides, which would do little to repair public trust in governance.
“Moreover, the societal implications are dire. This case transcends the individual and speaks to a culture of impunity that must be addressed. Justice must not only be served for Mr. Abuwatseya but also for the many unnamed victims of similar abuses. True justice would signal a broader commitment to restoring dignity and accountability in public office, ultimately fostering a more equitable society. It is imperative that this case serves as a catalyst for change, leading to reforms that prioritize respect for human rights and the rule of law in Nigeria,” the statement added.
