Stephen Abuwatseya, the e-hailing driver who was assaulted by House of Representatives member Alex Ikwechegh, has issued an apology following the altercation that occurred during a package delivery on October 28.
In a video statement released to the press on Thursday, Abuwatseya expressed regret for his actions, apologizing to Ikwechegh for any words or actions that may have provoked the lawmaker.
The incident, which occurred at Ikwechegh’s residence in Maitama, Abuja, was captured in a viral video showing the visibly angry lawmaker slapping and insulting the driver after he was asked to come outside and collect a package containing snails.
In his message, Abuwatseya stated, “Good day, Nigerians. My name is Stephen Abuwatseya. I had a misunderstanding with Rt. Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh a few days ago. I actually want to apologize to him for whatever I must have said or done to provoke him to that level of anger.”
He continued, urging Nigerians to put the incident behind them, “I want to tell Nigerians that it’s not time for us to start dividing ourselves based on religion, tribes, or regions. We should actually come together, see how we can unite this nation, and move it forward.”
Abuwatseya also referenced the importance of forgiveness, quoting the Lord’s Prayer: “Please, Nigerians, let’s forgive and forget, as it’s even contained in our Lord’s Prayer, that ‘Lord, please forgive us, as we forgive those who trespass against us.’ For there is no justice without forgiveness. Thank you very much.”
The driver expressed gratitude to his family and supporters for their backing during the incident, saying, “I want to use this medium to thank my family members, my parents, my brothers, my uncles and everybody that stood by me. I want to thank all of you. I love you all. Thank you. God bless Nigeria.”
The altercation had sparked widespread attention after a viral video showed Ikwechegh angrily slapping the driver multiple times during the delivery of a package.
Following the incident, the lawmaker posted a public apology on Instagram, acknowledging that his behavior did not reflect the standards expected of a public official. He also expressed regret over the incident, apologizing to Abuwatseya, the Nigerian Police Force, and the National Assembly.
In his message, Ikwechegh shared that he and Abuwatseya had engaged in alternative dispute resolution, leading to a “mutual and respectful agreement” between the two parties.