A Kuje Magistrate Court has granted bail to embattled House of Representatives member, Alex Ikwechegh, in the sum of N500,000.
Ikwechegh, representing Aba North and South, was arraigned for allegedly assaulting a Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, outside his Abuja residence. The charge against the defendant bordered on abuse of office, assault, and threat to life.
In his ruling on Wednesday, Magistrate Abubakar Umar Sai’id held that he was minded to accede to the defendant’s application for bail. The bail conditions include two sureties in like sum, who must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and provide utility bills as proof of residence. Ikwechegh pleaded not guilty to the charges and was granted bail.
The incident occurred on Sunday, October 27, at Ikwechegh’s residence on Zamfara Crescent, Maitama, Abuja. The police said preliminary investigations indicate that Abuwatseya was delivering a package to Ikwechegh when a dispute arose concerning the method of delivery. The FCT Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, ordered an investigation into the matter.
The House of Representatives also referred the case to the Ethics and Privileges Committee for further investigation.
Ikwechegh tendered an unreserved apology to the House and the victim for his actions. He regretted his actions, saying they do not reflect the values and character he strives to uphold as a citizen and representative of the people.
Ikwechegh’s counsel, Ody Esq, made an oral application for bail, which was granted by the judge. The case has been adjourned to November 8.
The viral video of the incident showed Ikwechegh slapping the driver three times and threatening to make him disappear anywhere in Nigeria without anything happening.
