House Ethics Committee to Investigate Ikwechegh Assault on Bolt Driver

Neusroom can confirm that the House of Representatives has commenced an investigation into the alleged assault involving Rep. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh and a Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya.

Ikwechegh, who represents the Aba North and South Federal Constituency, has been embroiled in controversy after he was caught on video physically assaulting Abuwatseya and threatening to make him disappear.

His actions have sparked outrage among Nigerians, many of whom are calling for the lawmaker’s suspension. In an earlier email conversation with Neusroom, Hon. Akin Rotimi, Jr., the Spokesman of the House of Representatives, did not explicitly state whether the lawmaker would be suspended.

When specifically asked if Hon. Ikwechegh would be suspended pending an investigation into his conduct, Akin Rotimi replied, “The House remains committed to addressing the issues.”

During Tuesday’s plenary, the matter was raised as a Point of Privilege by House Leader Rep. Julius Ihonvbere (APC, Edo), urging the chamber to act swiftly to uphold the institution’s credibility.

Ihonvbere, supported by Deputy Minority Leader Rep. Aliyu Sani Madaki (NNPP, Kano), emphasized the need for the House to demonstrate both accountability and justice.

“The credibility of this institution must not only be protected but demonstrated through appropriate actions,” he argued before moving to refer the case to the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges.

In response, Rep. Ikwechegh invoked a Matter of Personal Explanation under House rules, offering an apology to the victim, the Nigeria Police, and the Nigerian public.

Rep. Babajimi Benson (APC, Lagos) acknowledged Ikwechegh’s apology but emphasized the importance of due process.

“We must conduct ourselves with respect and integrity. As representatives of the people, we are accountable to the citizens who gave us this mandate,” he reminded his colleagues.

Presiding over the session, Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu directed the Ethics and Privileges Committee to handle the matter thoroughly. He stated that the investigation would ensure fairness to all parties involved and instructed the committee to report back to the House within two weeks.

“The House remains committed to transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct,” stated House Spokesman Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr., affirming the chamber’s dedication to its legislative duties and responsibilities to Nigerians.