Abia Lawmaker Faces Court for Assault, Trial Set for November 8 with Bail at N500,000

Alexander Ikwechegh, Abia Representative, enters a plea of not guilty in alleged assault case involving a Bolt driver

A Kuje Magistrate Court in Abuja has scheduled the trial of Alexander Ikwechegh, the federal representative for Aba North and South, to commence on November 8. The hearing follows his arraignment on charges of assault and abuse of office involving a Bolt driver, with the court granting him bail set at N500,000.

Ikwechegh was brought before His Worship Abubakar Umar Sai’id on Wednesday, where he pleaded not guilty to accusations that he assaulted driver Stephen Abuwatseya at his residence in Abuja. The charges, filed by Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, include abuse of office, assault, and issuing threats.

Following the plea, Ikwechegh’s defense counsel requested bail, which the magistrate granted on the conditions that the legislator provides two sureties, each meeting the same financial threshold. Both sureties must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and present utility bills as proof of residence.

The court set November 8 as the trial date, when Ikwechegh will face formal proceedings on the allegations. The incident sparked public interest after a video of the alleged assault circulated on social media. In the footage, Ikwechegh is seen striking the driver repeatedly and making intimidating statements, suggesting he had the power to make the driver “disappear.”

The case has drawn condemnation from various advocacy groups, including the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC). The group’s Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, issued a statement describing the incident as an “appalling example of power misuse” among political figures. Nwanguma called for an investigation into the conduct of lawmakers who believe they can act with impunity.

RULAAC’s statement highlighted the social impact of the incident, criticizing the culture of impunity that exists in Nigeria’s political system. “Ikwechegh’s behavior reflects poorly on both the House of Representatives and the political framework as a whole,” said Nwanguma, urging the House to ensure accountability in addressing the issue. He emphasized that justice in this case could serve as a message against unchecked power.

The organization also warned against the police showing favoritism in high-profile cases. Nwanguma argued that the police’s responsiveness in this case will be a test of their integrity and dedication to justice.

The House of Representatives has reportedly initiated its investigation into the matter, though advocates stress the importance of real consequences. Nwanguma concluded, “The outcome here should send a strong signal, underscoring that no individual, regardless of status, is beyond the reach of the law.”