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…Driver Narrates Ordeal
FCT, ABUJA, NIGERIA – Hon. Alexander Ikwegh, representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency of Abia State, is now in police custody following an alleged assault on an e-hailing driver, Mr. Stephen Abuwatseya, who had gone to deliver a package to him in Abuja.
The incident reportedly took place on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at Hon. Ikwegh’s residence on Zamfara Crescent, Maitama, Abuja.Josephine Adeh, spokesperson for the Abuja Command, on Monday, October 28, 2024, confirmed Ikwegh’s detention at the Maitama Police Station, where he is undergoing questioning.
Mr. Abuwatseya reported the incident to the police, citing an altercation that began over the delivery method and escalated to physical assault.During the altercation, Ikwegh allegedly slapped the driver and reportedly dismissed any consequences, taunting, “You can go ahead and call the Inspector General of Police.”
The FCT Police Command however condemned the lawmaker’s attitude, emphasizing that it reflected a troubling disregard for law enforcement authority.
FCT Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, has mandated a comprehensive investigation.
A police statement assured that the case will be handled impartially and legal action will be taken following the inquiry’s conclusion.
The incident however sparked widespread outrage on social media after a video surfaced showing Hon. Ikwegh repeatedly slapping and berating the driver for asking him to come outside and retrieve his delivery.
In the footage, the lawmaker warned the driver he could “make him disappear” without consequence, asserting his status as an All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) member and high-ranking official.
The Take It Back Movement has called for Ikwegh’s immediate arrest and prosecution, criticizing his alleged pattern of intimidation.
In a statement, the group questioned, “How many innocent Nigerians has this dishonorable Rep member made disappear without a trace?”
The group demanded accountability, stressing those public officials should not exploit their positions to threaten citizens.
In an interview with social activist Verydarkman, Mr. Abuwatseya described his ordeal, alleging that Ikwegh called in officers to detain him without allowing him to contact anyone.
The driver was held at the station for over two hours, during which he claims he was questioned about recording the incident.
His car remains impounded at the station, and he reports leaving at 3:00 a.m.
In another development, the Nigeria Police Force has issued a public statement via X.com, cautioning against using the Inspector General’s name or office to intimidate others.
It reiterated that such actions undermine the IGP’s role and the values of impartiality the office upholds, affirming its commitment to ensuring justice in the case.
The FCT Police Command has assured the public that the investigation is active and that any confirmed acts of misconduct will be prosecuted.
The case continues to be monitored, with growing calls for accountability and for the protection of citizens’ rights.
