By Olusegun Olanrewaju, with agency report
The House of Representatives has referred the case of the alleged assault of a commercial driver, Mr Stephen Abuwatseya, by Alexander Ikwechegh (APGA-Abia) to the Ethics and Privileges Committee for further investigation.
This is in addition to the motion adopted by the House Majority Leader, Rep. Julius Ihonvbere, at plenary yesterday.
A video recording, which went viral on Sunday night, allegedly showed the lawmaker assaulting the cab driver and using derogatory words on him following a disagreement between them.
Ihonvbere described the development as demeaning the parliament as an institution, saying that as majority leader, he received numerous calls from Nigerians from all walks of life after the video was released.
In his remarks, Babajimi Benson (APC-Lagos state), chairman of the Committee on Defence, cautioned members against acts that portrayed them as untouchables.
He urged his colleagues to act the other way round instead as elected representatives of the people.
Meanwhile, Ikwechegh tendered his unreserved apology to the House and the victim for his actions in the video.
The Rep member said he regretted his actions.
“What began as a misunderstanding escalated into actions and remarks I deeply regret, which do not reflect the values and character I strive to uphold, both as a citizen and as a representative of the people.
“I sincerely apologise for my words and actions during this incident. I recognise the distress and frustration this has caused Abuwatseya, his family, and the public.
“As a public servant, I understand the weight of my role and how my words can impact others. I remain accountable for my actions while I am human and not infallible.
“Abuwatseya and I have explored alternative dispute resolution methods to address this issue and have reached a respectful resolution, which I am committed to following through,” he said.
In his ruling, the Deputy Speaker said that Ikwechegh would not be hurriedly suspended, as many demanded, without following due process.
He said the case would be forwarded to the ethics committee, which is charged with handling disciplinary matters.
*Security expert calls for drug tests for lawmakers, others
Meanwhile, as a means of ensuring moral rectitude and a mentally prosperous future for Nigeria’s representatives at various levels, the need for members of the National Assembly to be tested for psychological and illicit drug abuse has been stressed.
In a statement yesterday, the President of the African Council on Narcotics (ACON), Rekpene Bassey, called for this end and stressed the need for all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organisations (CSOs), and the electorate, to support the initiative.
Bassey stated the need to collaborate to “ensure that our representatives are qualified and possess the mental and moral fortitude to lead our nation towards a prosperous and stable future.”
The President, a security and drug prevention expert, also highlighted what he termed “recent disturbing incidents involving members of the National Assembly,” which have made it imperative “to introduce stringent measures that ensure the integrity and mental well-being of our legislative representatives.”
According to him, “The alarming behaviour exhibited by Alex Ikwechegh, a member of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) representing Aba North and South federal constituency, who recently engaged in a violent altercation with a cab driver, underscores a critical issue that must be addressed urgently.
“This incident, coupled with public allegations by Senator Kawu Sumaila of Kano South regarding the involvement of some National Assembly members in illicit drug use, highlights the necessity for comprehensive pre-election psychological evaluations and illicit drug abuse tests.”
He added, “Such measures are essential to ascertain the mental fitness and moral rectitude of those who hold public office, ensuring they are capable of serving with the integrity and responsibility that the Nigerian people deserve.
“Implementing these evaluations will not only help in identifying individuals who may pose a risk to public trust due to substance abuse or psychological issues but will also restore confidence in our democratic institutions. We must maintain a legislative body that embodies the principles of justice, accountability, and service.
“By subjecting National Assembly members to these tests, we can take a significant step towards a more transparent and trustworthy government committed to upholding the highest standards of public service.
“We call upon all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organisations, and the electorate, to support this initiative. Let us work together to ensure that our representatives are qualified and possess the mental and moral fortitude to lead our nation towards a prosperous and stable future,” Bassey added.
