Taiwo Popoola
Apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called for the immediate arrest of the House of Representatives member representing Aba North and South, Alex Ikwechegh for assaulting a cab driver in Abuja.
Ohanaeze expressed disappointment with Ikwechegh’s “appalling” action against the cab driver, stating that it tarnished the reputation of the Southeast region.
An altercation had ensued between the lawmaker and the cab driver, Stephen Abuwatseya during the delivery of a package in the Maitama area of Abuja.
The disagreement led to the lawmaker assaulting the cab driver, threatening that he could make him disappear from Nigeria.
Condemning Ikwechegh’s action, Ohanaeze’s factional Secretary-General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, urged the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun to invite the lawmaker for questioning.
Isiguzoro said Ohanaeze firmly believes that it is imperative for all meaningful Nigerians to vociferously denounce the pervasive scourge of hate speech, violence, and intimidation in society.
A statement he signed reads: “Ohanaeze stands united in its unwavering commitment to justice, respect, and the cultural integrity of the Igbo people.
“We have been appalled by the shocking and unacceptable behaviour displayed by Honorable Alex Ikwechegh, the member of the House of Representatives representing Aba North and South, who has been implicated in a violent altercation with an Uber driver in Abuja, Mr Stephen Abuwatseya.
“This incident, characterized by the use of threatening language and physical aggression, not only endangers the life of an individual but also tarnishes the reputation of the Southeast region.
“It is vital to emphasize that the actions of Rep Ikwechegh stand in stark contrast to the cherished norms and values that define us as a people.
“As Igbo, we are driven by principles of respect, communal harmony, and the protection of the vulnerable.
“The reported assault on Mr Abuwatseya reflects not merely a personal failing but a broader societal issue that must be addressed with the utmost seriousness.
“Allowing such behaviour to go unchecked would signal a dangerous precedent that undermines the rule of law and erodes public trust in our elected representatives.”
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo unequivocally asserts that there is no amount of image management or public relations manoeuvring that can protect Rep Ikwechegh from his rightful confrontation with the law.
“Public servants must be held to the highest standards of behaviour, particularly when they wield authority over others,” he declared.
He called upon the Inspector General of Police to take immediate and decisive action by formally inviting Rep Ikwechegh for questioning.
