In a bizarre twist of events the Bolt driver Stephen Abuwatseya who was assaulted by a lawmaker Alex Mascot Ikwechegh has made a public apology to the lawmaker forcing his lawyers Deji Adeyanju and Partners to pull out of the assault case pending in court.
On October 28, 2024, the lawmaker representing Aba North/South of Abia State was seen in viral video attacking Mr. Abuwatseya bodily and verbally after he had gone to make a delivery at his residence. Hon. Ikwechegh, following a backlash apologised to his colleagues in the House of Representatives and to Nigerians.
He was arraigned at a Kuje Magistrates’ Court on three counts charges of abuse of office, assault, and threat to life, by the police. He was granted bail in the sum of ₦500,000. The case was adjourned until November 8, 2024, for a hearing. But it appears the Lawmaker and the Bolt driver have reached an “Alternative dispute resolution” agreement.
On Thursday it was the turn of the Bolt driver to make his own apology. He begged the lawmaker for forgiveness, saying in video post that he provoked him with his action.
Based on this his lawyers put out a statement :“We wish to formally announce the withdrawal of our legal representation in the case involving the alleged assault of Mr Stephen Abuwatseya.
“On October 28, 2024, Mr Stephen Abuwatseya approached our law firm, visibly distressed, and sought redress over an alleged assault. Following his complaint, and after verifying his claim, we took steps to protect Mr Stephen Abuwatseya’s rights on a pro-bono basis, resulting in the arraignment of the alleged assailant.
“However, in view of recent developments and after careful consideration, we have decided to withdraw our legal representation to protect our professional integrity and uphold the highest ethical standards in the legal profession.
“We wish Mr Stephen Abuwatseya the very best and assure the general public of our continued commitment to protecting the rights of the oppressed and indigent members of society.”
Reactions on social media:
@Sandra Matthew: “How do you apologize to your oppressor? This is why the rich keeps oppressing the Apparently, he has been brought or being threatened “.
@Foodshop: “How much did he settle you with?”.
@Dordor Fad: “They have paid him or threatened him”.
@Biola Cookerlee: “Dem don threaten him Senator disappear, you do this one”.
