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The House of Representatives has condemned the violent attack on a ride-hailing driver carried out by a member of the lower chamber, calling for immediate accountability. This incident has drawn attention to the broader issue of safety for service workers and the expectation that legislators should exemplify respectful conduct in all interactions.
A disturbing video depicting Alex Ikwechegh assaulting Stephen Abuwatseya and threatening him has gone viral, leading to widespread condemnation from the Nigerian public. This incident has sparked a national conversation about violence and the need for greater protection for victims, with many demanding urgent measures to address such behavior.
Shortly after the video became public, the House of Representatives issued a statement expressing its serious concern about the incident. The legislative body emphasized the importance of addressing such behavior, reiterating its commitment to ensuring that all individuals, especially those in positions of authority, are held accountable for their actions.
House of Representatives, National Assembly
Office of the House Spokesman
“These reports, which have garnered widespread media coverage and public attention, detail accusations of a physical confrontation with an e-hailing driver, Citizen Stephen Abuwatseya, and the use of threatening language,” Reps spokesman Akin Rotimi Jr said in a late Monday statement.
“The 10th Assembly, House of Representatives, takes these allegations very seriously. As elected officials, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of ethical conduct and accountability in our official engagements and privately.
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Any behaviour that falls short of these standards is a matter of concern, and we are committed to addressing such issues with the utmost seriousness.
We are aware that the matter is now before the Nigeria Police, and we urge the public to allow the due process of investigation to unfold. We welcome further engagement from the public on the subject, which can be shared via email at [email protected], [email protected], even as we continue to monitor the situation.
“We remain dedicated to upholding the values of accountability, transparency, and ethical behavior that define the 10th Assembly, House of Representatives. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”
Following the development, police authorities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) said the lawmaker from Abia State was in its custody.
“Currently, the suspect is at the Maitama Police Station undergoing questioning,” the police said in a statement.
