Alex Ikwechegh, a member of the Abia State House of Representatives, has issued a public apology following an incident where he was recorded assaulting a Bolt driver who had delivered a package to him.
In a viral video, Ikwechegh was seen in a heated exchange with the driver whom he accused of disrespect for asking him to approach the car to receive his package.
Alexander Mascot Ikwechegh threatened to make an Uber driver to disappear from Nigeria. He also threatened to beat up the cabman and lock him up in his generator house.
The police, in a statement, confirmed that Ikwechegh was undergoing questioning at its Maitama Divisional Headquarters and expressed disappointment over his mention of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, during the confrontation with the driver.
The incident has drawn significant public criticism, with many calling for accountability. Reacting, Mr Macaroni said that politicians have never been accountable to the Nigerians.
He cited the FCT Minister as an instance, whom he claimed asked if some Nigerians were stupid while addressing them.
Mr Macaroni wrote:
“Nigerian politicians lack regard for Nigerians and this is because they have never been accountable to the people.
“The other day the FCT Minister was addressing some Nigerians and he said; “are you stupid, is it because I came down to talk to you”
“You are a civil servant!
“What do you mean by “is it because I came down to talk to you?”
You are talking to the people that pay your salary!!! Whatever privileges your office allows you is as a function of your service to the people! You work for the people and not the other way round. Arrogance has no place in public office!!!
“Nigeria is not a private entity. Your duty is to serve!!! You are not anybody’s chairman.
“So, next time any Nigerian politician is addressing the people, please remind them that they are speaking to the people they are serving, not their followers.”
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the lawmaker representing Aba north/south federal constituency of Abia state, said he regrets his actions.
Honourable Alex Ikwechegh took to his page to apologise for his behaviour. He noted that what he had done was out of character for him. Ikwechegh has committed to ensuring that such behaviour does not happen again, and the police investigation into the matter continues. Ikwechegh also called on Nigerians to join him in fostering a culture of respect and tolerance.
In his words;
“*Office of Rep. Alexander Mascot Ikwechegh*
*Press Statement* FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
*Apology Regarding Recent Interaction with Citizen Stephen Abuwatseya*
*Abuja, FCT I Tuesday, October 29, 2024* — I wish to address an incident that occurred on Sunday involving an unfortunate exchange with Citizen Stephen Abuwatseya, an e-hailing cab driver.
What began as a misunderstanding escalated into actions and remarks | deeply regret, which do not reflect the values and character I strive to uphold, both as a citizen and as a representative of the people.
| sincerely apologize for my words and actions during this incident. I recognize the distress and frustration this has caused Citizen Abuwatseya, his family, and the public at large. As a public servant, | understand the weight of my role and how my words can impact others.
While I am human and not infallible, I remain accountable for my actions. Citizen Abuwatseya and I have explored alternative dispute resolution methods to address this issue and have reached a respectful resolution, which I am committed to following through.
Furthermore, I extend my heartfelt apologies to the Inspector General of Police, recognizing the unintended disparagement my remarks may have caused to his person, his office, and the entire institution. I reaffirm my respect for the Nigerian Police Force and the Inspector General’s commitment to maintaining law and order.
Additionally, I extend my sincere apologies to the leadership and members of this House and the National Assembly as a whole for any deficit in goodwill this incident may have caused. I am aware that my actions reflect not only on myself but also on this esteemed institution and the trust that the public places in us.
This incident has been a humbling reminder of the necessity for restraint and self-control, especially in challenging circumstances. I sincerely apologize for any pain or discomfort my actions may have caused, and I am committed to learning from this experience to grow into a better citizen and a more empathetic representative of the people.
This experience is particularly disheartening given my recent achievements in constituency engagement, including many interventions in health, agriculture, education, and economic empowerment for my people.
It is a teachable moment not only for me but also for many in the political sphere, as we are held to higher standards of conduct and rhetoric, even under provocation.”
By Ezinne Okorie.
