Segun Adeyemi

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<h2>Deji Adeyanju and Partners, a legal firm led by human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju, has withdrawn from representing Stephen Abuwatseye, a Bolt driver allegedly assaulted by Abia lawmaker Alex Ikwechegh. </h2>

The withdrawal was publicly announced by Adeyanju on social media platform X, citing professional and ethical concerns.

In the statement titled, “Public Statement on the Alleged Assault of Mr Stephen Abuwatseye: Withdrawal of Legal Representation,” the firm explained its decision to step down from the case.

“On October 28, 2024, Mr Stephen Abuwatseye walked into our law firm, visibly distressed, and sought redress over an alleged assault,” read the statement.

Adeyanju’s firm verified Abuwatseye’s claims and initially took the case on a pro bono basis, resulting in the arraignment of the accused lawmaker.

However, “in view of recent developments and after careful consideration,” the firm decided to withdraw its services.

The statement noted that the decision was made “to protect our professional integrity and maintain the highest ethical standard in the legal profession.”

Adeyanju reaffirmed the firm’s dedication to advocating for the rights of vulnerable and oppressed individuals.

The firm’s withdrawal followed <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/bolt-driver-apologises-to-abia-lawmaker-after-assault-incident/ccy3396">Abuwatseye’s public apology to the lawmaker</a>, an action that has sparked public backlash.

Many Nigerians have voiced disappointment, arguing that the victim, rather than apologising, should receive justice.

L-R: Barr. Deji Adeyanju, Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh and Stephen Abuwatseya, the Bolt driver involved in a recent assault incident. [Facebook]

Deji Adeyanju and Partners, a legal firm led by human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju, has withdrawn from representing Stephen Abuwatseye, a Bolt driver allegedly assaulted by Abia lawmaker Alex Ikwechegh.

Lawyer steps down from assault case as Bolt driver apologises to Abia lawmaker

<h2>Stephen Abuwatseya, the Bolt driver involved in a recent assault incident with Abia State lawmaker, Rt. Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, has issued a public apology, attributing the misunderstanding to his “provocative utterances.” </h2>

Abuwatseya’s statement comes <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/video-outrage-as-nigerian-lawmaker-allegedly-assaults-bolt-driver-in-abuja/gmetdjq">after video footage surfaced</a>, showing the legislator slapping and threatening him on October 28.

In a video released Thursday, November 7, Abuwatseya expressed regret, urging Nigerians to move beyond the incident.

“Good day, Nigerians. My name is Stephen Abuwatseya. I had a misunderstanding with Rt. Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh a few days ago,” he said. “I actually want to apologise to him for whatever I must have said or done to provoke him to that level of anger.”

Calling for national unity and forgiveness, he added, “Please, Nigerians, let’s forgive and forget, as it’s even contained in our Lord’s Prayer… For there is no justice without forgiveness.”

The altercation reportedly began when Abuwatseya was delivering a package to Ikwechegh’s Abuja residence.

In the video, Ikwechegh is seen verbally abusing and slapping the driver, at one point threatening to make him “disappear from Nigeria.”

Following public backlash, the lawmaker was arraigned at a Magistrate Court in Kuje, <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/court-grants-naira500k-bail-for-abia-lawmaker-accused-of-assaulting-bolt-driver/dsjgdhh">where he pleaded not guilty to charges of assault.</a>

While Abuwatseya’s apology may aim to de-escalate tensions, the legal proceedings continue as Ikwechegh faces formal charges, highlighting broader concerns about accountability among public officials.

L-R: Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh and Stephen Abuwatseya, the Bolt driver involved in a recent assault incident.  [Facebook]

Stephen Abuwatseya, the Bolt driver involved in a recent assault incident with Abia State lawmaker, Rt. Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, has issued a public apology, attributing the misunderstanding to his “provocative utterances.”

Bolt driver makes U-turn apologises to Abia lawmaker after assault incident

<h2>The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command confirmed the arrest of an Abia State lawmaker, Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, for allegedly assaulting a Bolt driver. </h2>

The police statement, issued by spokesperson Josephine Adeh, reveals that Ikwechegh is currently under interrogation at Maitama Police Station.

The altercation reportedly began when Bolt driver Stephen Abuwatseya, was delivering a package to Ikwechegh.

According to the police, “Preliminary investigations indicate that Mr. Abuwatseya was delivering a package to Hon. Ikwechegh when a dispute arose concerning the method of delivery. During this altercation, Mr. Abuwatseya was reportedly physically assaulted.”

Further highlighting the lawmaker’s dismissive attitude, police cited a troubling statement attributed to Ikwechegh.

After <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/video-outrage-as-nigerian-lawmaker-allegedly-assaults-uber-driver-in-abuja/gmetdjq">allegedly slapping Abuwatseya,</a> Ikwechegh reportedly remarked, “You can go ahead and call the Inspector General of Police.”

This comment, perceived as undermining the authority of law enforcement, has intensified public outcry.

<h3>Police to commence investigation</h3>

Olatunji Disu, Commissioner of Police in the FCT, mandated a <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/police-respond-to-allegations-of-lawmaker-assaulting-bolt-driver/m45tnqf">comprehensive investigation to ensure accountability. </a>

“The Command is committed to conducting an impartial investigation and ensuring justice in all cases. Upon completion of the investigation, appropriate legal action will be taken,” the statement assured.

The incident mirrors a recent assault case involving British Labour MP Mike Amesbury, who was suspended after being recorded allegedly assaulting a man.

The similarity has drawn attention to growing concerns over officials’ conduct both locally and abroad.

L-R: Hon. Alex Ikwechegh, and IGP Kayode Egbetokun. [Facebook]

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command confirmed the arrest of an Abia State lawmaker, Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, for allegedly assaulting a Bolt driver.

Abia lawmaker in police custody for assaulting Bolt driver

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Stephen Abuwatseya

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