Law firm withdraws from case involving Bolt driver, Abia lawmaker

The law firm Deji Adeyanju and Partners has announced its withdrawal from representing a Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, who was allegedly assaulted by Alex Ikwechegh, the House of Representatives member representing Aba North/South of Abia State.

Popular activist Deji Adeyanju shared this update on X on Friday.

According to a report by PUNCH Online, the incident occurred on October 28, 2024, when Ikwechegh allegedly assaulted Abuwatseya, who had arrived to deliver a package to him.

A viral video captured the altercation at Ikwechegh’s residence in Maitama, Abuja, showing the lawmaker repeatedly slapping and insulting Abuwatseya, who had requested that Ikwechegh come outside to collect a package of snails meant for delivery.

The incident was widely condemned by Nigerians, who called for an investigation.

After an interrogation at the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, a Kuje Magistrates’ Court granted Ikwechegh bail of ₦500,000. He was arraigned on three counts: abuse of office, assault, and threat to life. The case was adjourned until November 8, 2024, for a hearing.

However, in a video released to the press on Thursday, November 7, 2024, Abuwatseya apologised to Ikwechegh, expressing regret for provoking the lawmaker and asking Nigerians for forgiveness.

In a statement dated November 8, 2024, signed by Zainab Otega, Deji Adeyanju and Partners confirmed its withdrawal in a document titled “Public Statement on the Alleged Assault on Mr Stephen Abuwatseya: Withdrawal of Legal Representation,” explaining the decision as necessary to protect the firm’s integrity.

The statement read, “We wish to formally announce the withdrawal of our legal representation in the case involving the alleged assault of Mr Stephen Abuwatseya.

“On October 28, 2024, Mr Stephen Abuwatseya approached our law firm, visibly distressed, and sought redress over an alleged assault. Following his complaint, and after verifying his claim, we took steps to protect Mr Stephen Abuwatseya’s rights on a pro-bono basis, resulting in the arraignment of the alleged assailant.

“However, in view of recent developments and after careful consideration, we have decided to withdraw our legal representation to protect our professional integrity and uphold the highest ethical standards in the legal profession.

“We wish Mr Stephen Abuwatseya the very best and assure the general public of our continued commitment to protecting the rights of the oppressed and indigent members of society.”

Following the incident, Ikwechegh issued a public apology, expressing regret over his behaviour during the altercation.

In a post on Instagram, he apologised to the Bolt driver, the Nigerian Police Force and the National Assembly, acknowledging that his actions fell short of the standards expected of a public official, regardless of any provocation involved.

Ikwechegh also shared that he and Abuwatseya had engaged in alternative dispute resolution, reaching a “mutual and respectful agreement” to resolve the matter.