A Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, has publicly apologized to Alex Ikwechegh, the House of Representatives member representing Aba North/South of Abia State, following an altercation over a delivery.
In a video released on Thursday, Abuwatseya expressed remorse, saying he regretted any actions or words that may have provoked the lawmaker’s anger. He urged Nigerians to prioritize unity and forgiveness.
“Good day, Nigerians. My name is Stephen Abuwatseya. I had a misunderstanding with Rt. Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh a few days ago,” he stated. “I actually want to apologize to him for whatever I must have said or done to provoke him to that level of anger. Please, Nigerians, let’s forgive and forget, as it’s even contained in our Lord’s Prayer, “For there is no justice without forgiveness.”
Abuwatseya thanked his family and friends for their support during the ordeal, saying, “I want to use this medium to thank my family members, my parents, my brothers, my uncles, and everybody that stood by me.”
The incident, which went viral on social media, began when Abuwatseya, engaged by a vendor to deliver snails to Ikwechegh, requested that the lawmaker come outside to receive his order personally and provide payment. This request reportedly angered Ikwechegh, who was recorded expressing his frustration, perceiving the request as disrespectful given his status.
During the heated exchange, Ikwechegh reportedly threatened the driver, saying, “I can make this man disappear in the whole of Nigeria and nothing will happen… I will tie you up, lie you down, and put you in my generator house.”
When Abuwatseya informed Ikwechegh he was recording the conversation, the lawmaker responded, “My name is Honourable Alexander Mascot Ikwechegh, I am a member of the House of Reps. Call the Inspector General of Police, let him come.”
Following public backlash, Ikwechegh issued his own apology a few days later on social media, addressing the incident and expressing regret for his behavior. He apologized to Abuwatseya, the Nigerian Police Force, and the National Assembly, admitting his actions were inconsistent with the standards expected of a public official, regardless of the provocation.
The altercation and subsequent apologies have sparked discussions on social media regarding respect, accountability, and forgiveness among public officials and citizens alike.
