Assault: Abuja Bolt Driver Apologizes to Abia Rep, Alex Ikwechegh

Stephen Abuwatseya, the Abuja-based Bolt driver who was assaulted by Abia federal lawmaker Alex Ikwechegh, has publicly apologized for his role in the incident. In a video posted on Thursday, Abuwatseya expressed regret for his comments that led to the altercation, which occurred a few days earlier.

The driver explained that his provocative remarks had triggered the misunderstanding with Ikwechegh and asked Nigerians for forgiveness. He emphasized the importance of moving beyond the incident and called for unity in the country.

Abuwatseya said: “Good day, Nigerians. My name is Stephen Abuwatseya. I had a misunderstanding with Rt. Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh a few days ago, and I want to sincerely apologize to him for anything I may have said or done to provoke him to such a level of anger.”

He continued, urging Nigerians to set aside divisions based on religion, ethnicity, or region, and to work together for the nation’s progress. “We should come together, see how we can unite this nation, and move it forward,” he added.

The driver also quoted from the Lord’s Prayer, saying: “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.”

The incident occurred on October 28, when Ikwechegh, the representative for Aba North/South in Abia State, allegedly assaulted Abuwatseya while the driver was delivering a package to his residence in Abuja. The video footage of the assault showed the lawmaker slapping and verbally insulting the driver. In the video, Ikwechegh also threatened to make the Bolt driver “disappear” from Nigeria.

Following the incident, Ikwechegh was charged and arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Kuje, Federal Capital Territory, where he pleaded not guilty to the charges.