Law Firm Withdraws from Case of Bolt Driver Allegedly Assaulted by Lawmaker Alex Ikwechegh

The law firm Deji Adeyanju and Partners has announced its withdrawal from representing a Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, who was allegedly assaulted by Alex Ikwechegh, the House of Representatives member representing Aba North/South of Abia State.

Popular activist Deji Adeyanju shared this update on X on Friday.

According to a report by PUNCH Online, the incident occurred on October 28, 2024, when Ikwechegh allegedly assaulted Abuwatseya, who had arrived to deliver a package to him.

A viral video captured the altercation at Ikwechegh’s residence in Maitama, Abuja, showing the lawmaker repeatedly slapping and insulting Abuwatseya, who had requested that Ikwechegh come outside to collect a package of snails meant for delivery.

The incident was widely condemned by Nigerians, who called for an investigation.

After an interrogation at the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, a Kuje Magistrates’ Court granted Ikwechegh bail of #500,000. He was arraigned on three counts: abuse of office, assault, and threat to life. The case was adjourned until November 8, 2024, for a hearing.

However, in a video released to the press on Thursday, November 7, 2024, Abuwatseya apologised to Ikwechegh, expressing regret for provoking the lawmaker and asking Nigerians for forgiveness.