A Kuje Magistrates’ Court has granted bail to Alex Ikwechegh, a member of the Nigerian House of Representatives for Aba North and South, setting the sum at ₦500,000 and requiring two sureties in the same amount.
In a brief ruling, Presiding Judge Abubakar Sai’id stated that the sureties must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and provide utility bills as proof of residence.
The charges against Ikwechegh include abuse of office, assault, and making threats to life.
He pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Ikwechegh’s counsel then made an oral application for bail, which was granted by the court. The case has been adjourned to 8 November 2024.
Ikwechegh was arraigned for allegedly assaulting an e-hailing cab driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, in Abuja.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has urged Nigerians to await the outcome of a police investigation into the matter.
On Monday, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command detained Ikwechegh at the Maitama Police Station for questioning regarding the incident.
In a now-viral video, Ikwechegh was seen slapping the Bolt driver.
Ikwechegh represents the Aba North and South Federal Constituency under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) banner.
According to the recorded conversation in the video, the lawmaker had ordered snails from a vendor who arranged for the e-hailing driver to deliver them.
A heated argument ensued when Abuwatseya arrived at Ikwechegh’s residence and requested payment.
In the video, Ikwechegh is heard speaking to the vendor, saying, “How can this fool come to me and demand that I go to his car to collect a snail I’ve purchased from you? I can make this man disappear across Nigeria, and nothing will happen.”
After ending the call, Ikwechegh reportedly turned to Abuwatseya, saying, “You won’t get a penny from me with this level of disrespect. You’ll regret this; I’ll deal with you.”
The APGA representative then slapped the driver twice, with Abuwatseya calmly asking, “Are you slapping me, sir?”
“Yes, I just did. Slap me back if you dare,” Ikwechegh retorted.
When informed that the incident had been recorded, Ikwechegh replied, “My name is Honourable Alexander Mascot Ikwechegh, member of the House of Reps. Call the Inspector General of Police if you wish.”
Many Nigerians online have since called for justice in the matter.