By Olumide Olusegun
The Amalgamated Union of App-based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) has demanded sanctions against Alex Ikwechegh, a House of Representatives member representing Aba North and South, following an incident where he was filmed assaulting a Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya.
The incident occurred at Ikwechegh’s residence in Maitama, Abuja, when the driver was delivering a package.
In the widely circulated video, Ikwechegh can be seen slapping and berating the driver after being asked to step outside to receive his delivery.
Expressing anger, the lawmaker suggested that such a request was disrespectful, boasting that he could make the driver “disappear” without repercussions.
“Do you know who I am? I can make you disappear in Nigeria, and nothing will happen,” he said in the video.
He also threatened further harm, mentioning police involvement if necessary.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation.
The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has indicated it may take disciplinary action against Ikwechegh, while the police reminded the public that its authority should not be used to intimidate citizens.
Ikwechegh, who recently reclaimed his seat after a tribunal ruling, has previously been surrounded by controversy due to certificate forgery allegations, which he denies, attributing them to opposition misinformation.
AUATON’s National President, Comrade Damola Adeniran, condemned Ikwechegh’s behaviour, calling for justice for the driver.
“This is yet another example of power abuse by officials who believe they are above the law,” Adeniran said, urging for fair treatment and accountability for all Nigerians, regardless of their position or status.
He emphasized that AUATON’s stance was to send a clear message: “Nobody is above the law. The video shows a driver simply doing his job, and he was assaulted by someone who should be upholding the law. We call on the Nigerian police and the justice system to protect citizens’ rights.”
Adeniran further highlighted that AUATON’s support aims to address similar cases of harassment experienced by e-hailing drivers across Nigeria.
“Our members, whether in Abuja, Lagos, or Port Harcourt, regularly face mistreatment from those in privileged positions. We demand accountability to prevent future incidents.”
AUATON has called upon the House of Representatives and the federal government to investigate and prosecute Ikwechegh, insisting that justice must be served to deter others from abusing their positions.
Nigerians Urged to Stop Harassing App-Based Drivers
Drivers working for app-based ride services are calling on Nigerians to stop belittling and harassing them due to their profession.
Jossy Olawale, a driver and Ex-officio member of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transport Workers of Nigeria (AUATON), expressed concerns about recent incidents of violence against drivers.
He highlighted a troubling event involving a member of the National Assembly, criticizing lawmakers for breaking the very laws they are meant to uphold.
“This behaviour shows a dangerous trend in our country,” he stated, noting that despite provocation, drivers often maintain professionalism.
Olawale emphasized the need for the government to regulate the rapidly evolving app-based transport industry, arguing that many drivers are graduates forced into this line of work due to high unemployment rates in Nigeria.
He urged the public to recognize drivers as working professionals deserving of respect, similar to any other service workers.
He also encouraged anyone with complaints to contact the AUATON or the app companies directly, rather than resorting to harassment.
Furthermore, he called on law enforcement to protect drivers from those misusing authority to perpetrate violence.
Olawale assured the public that drivers will continue to provide professional service and asked for empathy and understanding from Nigerians.
VDM files petition
Meanwhile, Martins Otse, known as VeryDarkMan, has submitted a petition against the lawmaker.
The petition, filed with the assistance of activist lawyer Deji Adeyanju, accuses Ikwechegh of multiple offenses, including abuse of power, assault, and attempted murder.
Police arrest Ikewechegh
The Nigeria Police Force has arrested the lawmaker while commencing an investigation into matter.
In a statement on Monday, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, said Ikwechegh was invited for questioning over the case.
The police confirmed that Abuwatseya reported the incident to the Maitama Divisional Headquarters, prompting their response.
They also issued a warning against using the name of the Inspector General of Police to intimidate others.
The police have taken the matter seriously, emphasizing the need for accountability and respect for the law, regardless of a person’s status.
The investigation aims to address the allegations and uphold the integrity of law enforcement in the face of such incidents.
