Abuja, Nigeria – Representative Alex Ikwechegh, a member of the House of Representatives, has publicly apologized for his involvement in an assault scandal that has sparked outrage and calls for his recall.
The scandal began when a video surfaced showing Ikwechegh physically assaulting a driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, at his residence in Maitama, Abuja. The video quickly went viral, leading to widespread condemnation and demands for Ikwechegh’s recall.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Ikwechegh apologized for his actions, admitting that they were “unacceptable and unbecoming” of a public official. He also expressed regret for the harm and embarrassment his actions had caused Abuwatseya, as well as his constituents and the public.
However, despite Ikwechegh’s apology, a petition seeking his recall has already been submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The petition, signed by registered voters from Ikwechegh’s constituency, cites his gross misconduct and loss of confidence in his ability to represent them.
The petitioners are requesting that INEC verify their signatures and, if they meet the requirements of Section 69 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, conduct a referendum within 90 days to determine whether Ikwechegh should be recalled.
Ikwechegh’s apology has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising his willingness to take responsibility for his actions and others criticizing it as too little, too late.
The incident has sparked a wider conversation about the behavior of public officials and the need for accountability and transparency in government.
The outcome of the recall petition and the consequences for Ikwechegh’s political future remain to be seen.
