The Nigerian police have begun an investigation into the assault of an Uber driver by Honourable Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, a member of the House of Representatives.
Ikwechegh, who represents Aba North & South Federal Constituency, is at the centre of controversy following a viral video that appears to capture him assaulting an Uber driver at his residence in Maitama, Abuja.
According to the Uber driver, the dispute began when he requested that the lawmaker personally come outside to receive a delivery.
The video shows Hon. Ikwechegh, visibly upset, berating and cursing the driver, expressing anger over the perceived disrespect in being asked to step out.
As the tension escalates in the footage, Ikwechegh is seen slapping the driver multiple times, allegedly viewing the request as an insult to his status.
At one point in the video, Ikwechegh is reportedly heard threatening the Uber driver, saying he could make him “disappear” without repercussions.
Reacting to the now viral video of the assault, the police, in a statement on its verified X page on Monday, warned the public to desist from intimidating others using the name of the IGP Kayode Egbetokun.
Stating that the force is “actively handling the case,” the law enforcement agency mentioned that “such actions undermine the values of impartiality” in the country.
The police statement reads,The Nigeria Police Force is aware of the incident between a Bolt driver, Mr. Stephen Abuwatseya, and Hon. Alexander Ikwegh, which took place on October 27, 2024, in Maitama, Abuja.
“The FCT Command is actively handling the case following Mr. Abuwatseya’s official report at the Maitama Divisional Headquarters.
“The Police Force also urges the public to refrain from using the name or office of the Inspector-General of Police to intimidate others, as such actions undermine the values of impartiality that the IGP’s office upholds.”