The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has said a member of the House of Representatives, Alex Ikwechegh, is currently being questioned at its Maitama Divisional Headquarters. Ikwechegh, who represents the Aba North and South Federal Constituency, was alleged to have assaulted an e-hailing (Bolt) driver, Stephen Abuwatseya.
A widely circulated video shows Ikwechegh slapping the driver after he requested a delivery fee, asking the driver if he knew who he was dealing with. The lawmaker reportedly also threatened to make the driver “disappear” without facing any consequences.
In a statement on Monday by the command spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, the police said investigation had commenced into the matter. She added that already, preliminary investigation revealed that Abuwatseya was delivering a package to Ikwegh when a disagreement arose concerning the method of delivery.
“The FCT Police Command has received a report at the Maitama Divisional Headquarters regarding an incident involving a Bolt driver, Mr. Stephen Abuwatseya, and Hon. Alexander Ikwegh, who represents the Aba North and South Federal Constituency in Abia State. The incident occurred on October 27, 2024, at a residence on Zamfara Crescent, Maitama, Abuja. Adeh said. “Preliminary investigations indicate that Mr. Abuwatseya was delivering a package to Hon. Ikwechegh when a dispute arose concerning the method of delivery. During this altercation, Mr. Abuwatseya was reportedly physically assaulted.
The FCT Police Command expresses grave concern over Hon. Ikwegh’s dismissive attitude toward the office of the Inspector General of Police following the incident.
Adeh slammed the lawmaker for bringing the name of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun into disrepute by daring the driver to make calls through to him after slapping him.
She said, “After allegedly slapping the victim, he reportedly remarked with contempt, “You can go ahead and call the Inspector General of Police,” demonstrating a troubling disregard for the authority of law enforcement.
“The suspect is currently at the Maitama Police Station for questioning.”
Adeh added that FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Tunji Disu, has ordered a comprehensive investigation. “Commissioner of Police, FCT, CP Olatunji Disu, has directed a thorough investigation into the matter,” she said.