The House of Representatives on Tuesday resolved to investigate the actions of Alex Ikwechegh, the lawmaker representing Aba South/Aba North Federal Constituency.
Ikwechegh was arrested on Monday after a video went viral on social media showing him assaulting an Uber driver, Mr. Stephen Abuwatseya, who had delivered a package to Ikwechegh’s residence in Abuja.
The incident sparked widespread condemnation from Nigerians, further intensifying public scrutiny over lawmakers’ conduct.
Following his arrest, Ikwechegh issued an apology on Tuesday, appearing before the House with a visibly contrite demeanour.
His colleagues expressed disappointment over the incident, with the House adopting a motion by Majority Leader Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, who invoked House privilege to address the matter.
Ihonvbere criticized Ikwechegh’s behaviour, stressing that the House must uphold its reputation and members should represent the institution with dignity.
“It is the way you do and manage your house that outsiders will see, and give you respect,” Ihonvbere stated. “In this House, we come from different professional backgrounds and cultures. Many of us have invested heavily in improving our reputation before we came here. It is that reputation that we brought to the House of Representatives.”
Other members also weighed in, emphasizing the need for lawmakers to maintain a higher standard of public service.
Babajimi Benson, representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, reminded his colleagues of their responsibility to serve rather than assert power over citizens.
He noted, “Our elders have a saying that the day we stop learning is the day we die. They also say that we learn from mistakes and not from successes. However, the parliament is one of the most hated institutions in Nigeria today.”
Benson further remarked, “We should always be guided and also know that we are not an authority over Nigerians; Nigerians are an authority over us. They should be treated with dignity, respect, and kindness at all times. We must continue to change the heavily-battered image of the garment we all wear.”
Ikwechegh offered his apologies to the House, acknowledging that his conduct had fallen short of the expected standard. Explaining the incident under a personal explanation, he attributed his actions to the “heat of the moment” and expressed regret for the embarrassment caused to Mr. Abuwatseya, his constituents, and the Nigerian public. “It happened in the heat of the moment. As a public officer, my behavior fell short of the standard expected of me. I am very sorry.”
He assured his colleagues and the public that he would cooperate fully with the Nigerian Police investigation, while also taking steps to address his actions’ root causes.
Ikwechegh disclosed that he was seeking professional counseling to prevent similar behavior in the future.
He also committed to participating in community service initiatives to promote respect, empathy, and understanding.
“I am seeking professional counseling to ensure that such behavior never happens again. Additionally, I will be engaging in community service initiatives focused on promoting respect, empathy, and understanding,” he said.
He also encouraged Nigerians to work together toward a society that upholds respect and dignity. “We must work together to build a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.”
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, presiding over the session, emphasized that the House must adhere to its rules to protect its integrity whenever it is under scrutiny.
Meanwhile, prominent activist Deji Adeyanju filed a petition with the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, calling for a thorough investigation of the incident.
The petition, signed by Marvin Omorogbe, a partner at Deji Adeyanju and Partners, outlined allegations of “grievous assault, abuse of power, attempted murder, and threat to life.”
Adeyanju expressed concern over the incident, describing Ikwechegh’s actions as “totally distasteful and a threat to its client’s safety.”
The petition also highlighted the broader issue of citizen safety amid rising cases of enforced disappearances.
“At a time when several Nigerians are increasingly being subjected to enforced disappearance by state and non-state actors, we particularly find Hon Ikwechegh’s threat to cause our client’s disappearance as a national issue that deserves immediate investigation.”
Adeyanju urged authorities to prioritize the case, concluding with a formal request for the police to prosecute Ikwechegh to ensure justice is served.
