The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed awareness of an incident between a Bolt driver, Mr. Stephen Abuwatseya, and Hon. Alexander Ikwegh, which reportedly occurred on October 27, 2024, in the Maitama area of Abuja.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer of the FCT, the case is currently under investigation by the Federal Capital Territory Command after Mr. Abuwatseya filed a complaint at the Maitama Divisional Headquarters.
The statement added that preliminary investigations suggest that an argument over luggage handling escalated into a physical altercation resulting in the driver’s injuries.
Nwatu was later released on bail, with a requirement to return for further action on 28th October 2024.
The statement reads in part, “On 24th October 2024, a Bolt driver was allegedly assaulted by a passenger in the Galadima area of the FCT. Following a distress call, Police officers led personally by the Divisional Police Officer Galadima promptly responded and intervened in the situation.
“The passenger, identified as Brandy Nwatu, was taken into custody, while the driver, Emmanuel Ebhohimen, received medical attention at the Federal Medical Centre, Jabi.
“The FCT Police Command thanks the public for their prompt reporting, which helped to mitigate tensions. We remind residents that security is a shared responsibility and encourage them to continue utilizing our dedicated channels for communication.
“Rest assured that the FCT Police Command will fulfill its duty to maintain law and order, and ensure justice is served.”
A viral video of the altercation, recorded by Mr. Abuwatseya, captures Hon. Ikwegh allegedly slapping the driver twice and threatened to detain him.
In the footage, the lawmaker allegedly declares, “I will lock you up in my generator house and make you disappear and nothing will happen.”
The conflict reportedly began when Mr. Abuwatseya arrived to deliver a package and requested that Hon. Ikwegh step outside to collect it.
The lawmaker allegedly took offense, expecting the driver to bring the item into his compound. When Mr. Abuwatseya refused, a dispute ensued, escalating into a physical confrontation as the driver requested payment for his service.
Hon. Ikwegh has not yet commented on the incident. The FCT Command’s investigation is ongoing.
