Apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has condemned House of Representatives member Alex Ikwechegh’s actions following an altercation with a cab driver, urging the Inspector General of Police to swiftly summon him. The incident, which saw Ikwechegh allegedly assault and threaten the driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, in Abuja, has sparked outrage, with Ohanaeze labeling it a disgrace to the Southeast.
The altercation reportedly escalated when the driver delivered a package to Ikwechegh in Abuja’s Maitama area. A viral video of the incident shows the lawmaker threatening Abuwatseya, saying he could “disappear” him from Nigeria, a comment that stirred significant backlash. Ohanaeze’s factional Secretary-General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, strongly criticized the “appalling” behavior, claiming it tarnishes the image of the Southeast and violates the values of respect and communal harmony that the Igbo people uphold.
“Ohanaeze stands united in its unwavering commitment to justice, respect, and the cultural integrity of the Igbo people. This incident, characterized by the use of threatening language and physical aggression, not only endangers an individual’s life but also dishonors the Southeast region,” the statement read.
Emphasizing the importance of accountability among public officials, Isiguzoro added, “Allowing such behavior to go unchecked would set a dangerous precedent that undermines the rule of law and erodes public trust in elected representatives.”
Ohanaeze has called on Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun to initiate a formal investigation, asserting that public office comes with a responsibility to model exemplary behavior. The statement reiterated that no amount of public relations could shield Ikwechegh from facing the legal consequences of his actions, adding that the incident signals a broader societal issue requiring serious intervention.
The organization concluded by urging Nigerians to collectively reject intimidation and violence, and to reinforce a culture of respect, noting, “Public servants must be held to the highest standards of behavior, particularly when they wield authority over others.”
