Apology Not Enough: House Of Reps Refer Rep. Ikwechegh To House Committee On Ethics And Privilege

The House of Representatives has taken a position on embattled Rep. Alexander Mascot Ikwechegh.

Recall that Rep. Ikwechegh was recorded assaulting a Bolt driver identified as Stephen Abuwatseya in the Maitama area of Abuja on Sunday, October 27 for not entering his house at night to deliver a package.

During the incident which was captured on camera, the lawmaker used foul language on the Bolt driver and also slapped him twice before urging him to call the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun bragging that he is a member of the House of Representatives.

At the high point of the incident, Abuwatseya was bundled into his vehicle by policemen attached to Ikwechegh and detained at a police station in Abuja with his car impounded.

Addressing his colleagues in the House of Representatives under personal explanation, Reps. Ikwechegh explained the issue and apologised for using derogatory words on the Bolt driver, adding that the matter had been resolved with the driver

However, in his reaction, the presiding officer, Deputy Speaker, Rep. Benjamin Kalu stated that although he saw a remorseful man, but noted that the House was guided by its rules and that if the integrity of the House was threatened then it calls for an investigation. He noted that the House would investigate the unprincipled conduct of the lawmaker representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency of Abia State.

The House decision follows an adoption of a prayer by the Leader of the House, Rep. Julius Ihonbvere, under the privilege of the House rule on Tuesday at plenary. The House Leader stated that the image of the House must be protected.

The deputy speaker noted that Hon. Ikwechegh would be sent to the house committee on ethics and privileges to ensure a proper investigation of the incident, while the committee is expected to report to the House in two weeks for further legislative actions.