The disturbing incident involving Alex Ikwechegh, a Nigerian House of Representative member, highlights the alarming misuse of power.
Ikwechegh’s caught-on-camera slap of Bolt driver Stephen Abuwatseya and his chilling threat, “I can make you disappear from Nigeria and nothing will happen,” demonstrate a blatant disregard for human dignity and the law.
I am, however, disappointed that such a man, who openly confessed that he could make a vibrantly educated and innocent Nigerian, who is not ashamed to serve as a driver to survive, disappear and nothing will happen, was granted bail of 500k.
Nay! This seems to give certain individuals who are not above the law special treatment. There is an urgent need for the Nigerian Judiciary System to shake up.
In my view, such a dangerous act exposed by the Lawmaker himself via his words “I can make you disappear…” should not have allowed bail after being arraigned/charged to court , regardless of the fact that the case has not concluded. This is a total disrespect to humanity, and this is a call for the Judiciary system of Nigeria to wake up.
Just like the scripture says, “Out of the abundance of the mind, the mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45). The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart, his mouth speaks.
Alex’s threat to life against a Bolt driver, who offered him a service after refusing his demand, is a total disrespect to humanity and also a confession of some hidden evils, threats, and misconducts of Alex against many innocent Nigerians who are not courageous enough to fight for their rights.
Granting Ikwechegh N500k bail for assault by the Magistrate Court in Kuje, Abuja, undermines justice and sends a worrying message. It suggests influential individuals can act with impunity, intimidating and harming citizens without consequences.
This incident is not an isolated case. Unfortunately, numerous assaults by powerful individuals have gone unpunished, perpetuating a culture of fear and silence.
Concerns Surrounding the Case
Despite the viral video evidence, Ikwechegh pleaded not guilty, and the case was adjourned to November 8, 2024. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of the justice system.
The N500k bail granted to Ikwechegh seems lenient considering the severity of the offense. This may be an indirect avenue for Rep. Alex to strive and silence the case via different means, which is not proper.
To the general public, Ikwechegh’s 500k bail and subsequent actions may pass the wrong signal to human rights and may be seen as a legal way of silencing the matter and avoiding accountability.
What are the Implications?
Many victims remain silent due to fear of retaliation or intimidation. Unreported cases proliferate, hiding the true extent of the problem. Power abuse becomes normalized, eroding public trust in institutions. Consider those who are not bold enough to record such incidents. There are many innocent people who have been abused but have fear speaking out against powerful aggressors.
What about those who lack access to justice or support? Their voices are silenced, and their suffering is ignored. This culture of impunity must end.
Call to Action
As a journalist and concerned citizen of Nigeria, I urge:
- Judiciary intervention to address this injustice
- Alex’s bail revocation and thorough investigation
- Accountability for Ikwechegh’s actions
- Protection for victims of abuse of power
Nigeria deserves better. Its leaders must uphold the law, protect citizens, and promote a just society.
Paul Adebanjo
Is a concerned citizen of Nigeria , a certified Musicologist and Journalist who writes on music related issues and against human rights violation
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