Driver Reverses Stance, Seeks Forgiveness from Abia Legislator After Altercation
Abuja, November 6 — Stephen Abuwatseya, a Bolt driver, has publicly apologized to Alex Ikwechegh, the House of Representatives member for Aba North/South, following a heated altercation over a package delivery that led to the driver being assaulted. In a video statement released on Thursday, Abuwatseya expressed regret for his actions and urged Nigerians to forgive and move on from the incident.
“Good day, Nigerians. My name is Stephen Abuwatseya. I had a misunderstanding with Rt. Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh a few days ago. I want to apologize for whatever I must have done to provoke him,” he said, adding a plea for unity among Nigerians.
“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.
“Please, Nigerians, let’s forgive and forget, as it’s even contained in our Lord’s Prayer, that ‘Lord, please forgive us, as we forgive those who trespass against us.’ For there is no justice without forgiveness. Thank you very much.”
Abuwatseya also thanked his family and supporters for standing by him. “I want to thank my family, my parents, my brothers, and everyone who supported me. God bless Nigeria,” he added.
The incident, which occurred on October 28 at Ikwechegh’s residence in Abuja, involved an altercation during a package delivery. Video footage captured Ikwechegh slapping and insulting the driver, who had asked the lawmaker to come outside to collect a delivery of snails. The footage went viral, sparking public outrage.
Following the incident, Ikwechegh issued a public apology on Instagram, admitting that his conduct fell short of what is expected of a public official. He apologized to Abuwatseya, the Nigerian Police, and the National Assembly, acknowledging the need for accountability.
The two reportedly engaged in alternative dispute resolution, resulting in what Ikwechegh described as a “mutual and respectful agreement” to resolve the matter.
