Stephen Abuwatseya, a Bolt driver, has issued a formal apology under duress to Hon. Alex Ikwechegh, the House of Representatives member representing Aba North/South of Abia State, following an altercation that took place during a package delivery to the lawmaker.
In a video posted on social media, Abuwatseya expressed deep remorse and appealed for forgiveness from anyone offended by the incident.
He stated that he hoped his apology would ease tensions surrounding what he referred to as an “ugly incidence.”
Reflecting on the incident, Abuwatseya admitted, “I want to tell Nigerians that it’s not time for us to start dividing ourselves based on religion, tribes, or regions.
“We should actually come together, see how we can unite this nation and move it forward.”
He also acknowledged his “provocative utterances” towards Hon. Ikwechegh and used the opportunity to apologise directly to him.
Abuwatseya further emphasised the need for unity and understanding among Nigerians, encouraging everyone to be “their brother’s keeper,” irrespective of ethnic background.
He took a moment to thank his family and supporters for standing by him, describing himself as a young hustler with no ill intent towards anyone.
Ikwechegh had also offered a public apology in response to the incident. Through a message on his Instagram account, he expressed regret over his conduct, apologising to Abuwatseya, the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), and the National Assembly.
The lawmaker acknowledged that his actions “fell short of the standards expected from a public office holder” and stated that he had been provoked.
In an attempt to resolve the situation, Ikwechegh revealed that he and Abuwatseya had engaged in alternative dispute resolution, leading to a “mutual and respectful agreement.”
The incident initially drew widespread attention when a viral video surfaced on social media, showing Hon. Ikwechegh repeatedly slapping Abuwatseya.
In the footage, the lawmaker, apparently angered by what he described as “the driver’s rude behaviour,” was heard boasting that he could “make him disappear without trace” without any repercussions.
The backlash over the video eventually led Ikwechegh to publicly apologize, after which he faced legal proceedings.
