Civil Society Groups demand justice for Bolt Driver assaulted by Lawmaker

Civil Society Groups demand justice for Bolt Driver assaulted by Lawmaker

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja 

In a united response to a troubling incident involving a member of the House of Representatives, 84 organized civil society groups across Nigeria are calling for justice following the assault of a Bolt driver in Abuja. 

The driver, Mr. Stephen Abuwatseya, was allegedly attacked by Mr. Alex Ikwechegh, a lawmaker representing the Aba North and South Federal Constituency, on Sunday, October 27, 2024.

The incident gained significant attention after a video surfaced on social media, capturing the moment when Mr. Ikwechegh verbally and physically assaulted Mr. Abuwatseya.

Witnesses report that the altercation began when the driver, who was attempting to make a delivery, politely asked the lawmaker to step outside. The lawmaker’s furious reaction, which included slapping the driver and falsely claiming to be a “Federal Senator” above the law, has been widely condemned.

In a joint statement released by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and the other organizations, they expressed their outrage. 

“We strongly condemn Mr. Ikwechegh’s reprehensible assault on Mr. Abuwatseya and insist that he faces the full consequences of his action both before the courts and at the House of Representatives,” the statement declared.

Following the public backlash, the Nigerian Police arrested Mr. Ikwechegh, who later issued an apology to “the driver.” However, the coalition of civil society groups expressed concern that this apology should not be seen as an end to the matter.

“His apology lacks sincerity; he still refers to Mr. Abuwatseya merely as ‘the Bolt driver,’ failing to acknowledge him as a human being deserving of respect,” they stated.

The civil society organizations are adamant that the lawmaker should not receive any preferential treatment during the legal proceedings. 

“Mr. Ikwechegh must be prosecuted for his actions. Like any other suspect, he should not enjoy any special privileges,” they insisted. 

The coalition also criticized the silence of other lawmakers, stating, “The failure of Mr. Ikwechegh’s colleagues to condemn his actions only implies tacit approval of the oppression of citizens whom they are elected to represent.” 

Further demanding justice, the coalition called for several actions, including the immediate suspension of Mr. Ikwechegh from the House of Representatives and full protection for Mr. Abuwatseya from intimidation. 

“The security and welfare of the people must remain the primary purpose of government as stated in our constitution. This incident is a glaring representation of the impunity that pervades our governance system,” they emphasized.

Moreover, the groups urged the National Human Rights Commission to prioritize the case and ensure that the influence of Mr. Ikwechegh does not hinder the pursuit of justice. 

“We take this opportunity to call attention to the numerous issues plaguing Nigeria’s justice system, where the powerful act with impunity while the vulnerable face oppression,” they stated.

As pressure mounts on the government and relevant authorities to address this egregious act, the civil society coalition has promised to amplify citizens’ voices and demand accountability, stating, “We will not relent until justice is served.”