A member of the House of Representatives representing Aba North/Aba South Federal Constituency, Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, has issued a public apology following an altercation with an e-hailing cab driver, Stephen Abuwatseya.
Tribune Online reports that the Federal Capital Territory Police Command arrested the lawmaker after a video of him assaulting the driver, who was delivering an order to his Abuja residence, went viral on social media.
In the video, Ikwechegh, elected on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), was also heard telling a woman over the phone that he could make the driver dissapear without any consequences.
However, the lawmaker has now apologised for the incident and expressed regret over his conduct during the encounter.
In a statement released on his Instagram account on Tuesday, Ikwechegh expressed remorse for his actions and remarks, acknowledging that they fell short of the standards expected from a public officeholder.
He stated that he had engaged in alternative dispute resolution with the cab driver, resulting in a mutual and respectful agreement.
Additionally, the Abia lawmaker apologised to the Inspector General of Police, acknowledging the unintended harm his remarks may have caused to the IGP, his office, and the Nigerian Police Force.
Ikwechegh also extended apologies to the leadership and members of the National Assembly for any reputational damage his actions may have caused the institution.
He wrote, “ I wish to address an incident that occurred on Sunday involving an unfortunate exchange with Citizen Stephen Abuwatseya, an e-hailing cab driver.
“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 apologize for my words and actions during this incident. I recognize the distress and frustration this has caused Citizen Abuwatseya, his family, and the public at large. As a public servant, I understand the weight of my role and how my words can impact others.
“While I am human and not infallible, I remain accountable for my actions. Citizen 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.
“Furthermore, I extend my heartfelt apologies to the Inspector General of Police, recognizing the unintended disparagement my remarks may have caused to his person, his office, and the entire institution. I reaffirm my respect for the Nigerian Police Force and the Inspector General’s commitment to maintaining law and order.
“Additionally, I extend my sincere apologies to the leadership and members of this House and the National Assembly as a whole for any deficit in goodwill this incident may have caused. I am aware that my actions reflect not only on myself but also on this esteemed institution and the trust that the public places in us.
“This incident has been a humbling reminder of the necessity for restraint and self-control, especially in challenging circumstances. I sincerely apologize for any pain or discomfort my actions may have caused, and I am committed to learning from this experience to grow into a better citizen and a more empathetic representative of the people.”
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