Member of Parliament Alex Ikwechegh has apologized after a viral video emerged that captured him verbally abusing and slapping a taxi driver who had brought food to his residence in Abuja. The incident has created a huge outrage after the footage captured their hot argument over payment, recorded by the taxi driver Stephen Abuwatseya.
In his apology, Ikwechegh admitted that he was wrong to say what he did, taking responsibility as a public servant for what he said. “I am very sorry for the words and actions made in the incident. A public servant knows the weight and effect that my words can carry,” he said.
The quarrel started reportedly when Abuwatseya asked the legislator to come outside take delivery. This was a catalyst to anger Ikwechegh, who termed the driver as disrespectful. He is heard in the recording saying, “How can this stupid idiot come to my house and tell me that I’m supposed to come and meet him in his car? “He also threatened the driver by warning, “I will beat you up.
I will show you that I’m a big brother to you.”The scuffle turned to hand-to-hand combat; in the process, Ikwechegh was accusing Abuwatseya that he tore his shirt while slapping him many times. The police had an investigation into the issue by then, and they are encouraging the public not to abuse the name of the Inspector General of Police.
Ikwechegh later made an apology before the police chief and even the House of Representatives about the incidence. He had described the experience as “a humbling reminder of the need for restraint and self-discipline.”. The MP said he and Abuwatseya explored alternative methods of dispute resolution and reached a “respectful resolution.” House of Representatives has forwarded the matter to its committee on ethics for further action.
