Alexander Mascot Ikwechegh, the lawmaker representing Aba North/South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has publicly apologized for assaulting an e-hailing driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, in Maitama, Abuja. The incident, which took place on Sunday night, involved a physical and verbal altercation between Ikwechegh and the driver, who was delivering a package of snails ordered by the lawmaker.

According to reports, a disagreement ensued when the driver arrived at the delivery location, leading Ikwechegh to verbally insult the driver, refuse payment, tear his shirt, and allegedly slap him three times. Video recordings captured Ikwechegh boasting about his influence, even threatening that he could make the driver “disappear.” The videos circulated on social media, sparking public outcry and resulting in the lawmaker’s arrest after the police invited him for questioning.

In response, Ikwechegh apologized both to Abuwatseya and the Inspector General of Police (IGP), whose office he had disparaged during the incident. He posted an official apology letter on Facebook, read on the floor of the House of Representatives, expressing regret for his actions. In his statement, Ikwechegh acknowledged the distress caused to Abuwatseya, his family, and the public, and confirmed that they had reached a respectful resolution through alternative dispute methods.

“As a public servant, I am acutely aware of the weight of my role and the impact my words and actions can have on others,” Ikwechegh said. “This incident has been a humbling reminder of the necessity for restraint and self-control, especially in difficult circumstances.”

The lawmaker extended further apologies to the IGP, his colleagues in the National Assembly, and the general public, emphasizing that his actions did not reflect the values he seeks to uphold. He committed to using the incident as an opportunity for personal growth, recognizing the higher standards required of public officials.

Ikwechegh, who has reportedly offered to cover Abuwatseya’s October salary, reaffirmed his dedication to serving with integrity and to working towards positive change in his constituency.