The law firm Deji Adeyanju and Partners has announced its decision to withdraw from representing Stephen Abuwatseya, a Bolt driver allegedly assaulted by Alex Ikwechegh, a member of the House of Representatives from Aba North/South constituency, Abia State. The update was shared by activist Deji Adeyanju on the platform X.
The incident, which took place on October 28, 2024, quickly went viral after a video surfaced showing Ikwechegh repeatedly slapping and insulting Abuwatseya at his residence in Maitama, Abuja. The altercation reportedly began when the Bolt driver requested the lawmaker to come outside and collect a delivery of snails. The video sparked widespread condemnation, with many Nigerians calling for immediate action.
Following public outrage, the Federal Capital Territory Police Command interrogated Ikwechegh, who was subsequently arraigned at a Kuje Magistrates’ Court. He faced charges of abuse of office, assault, and making threats to life. The court granted him bail set at ₦500,000, and the hearing was scheduled for November 8, 2024. However, in a surprising turn of events, Abuwatseya released a video on November 7, 2024, apologising to Ikwechegh. He expressed regret for provoking the lawmaker and requested forgiveness from the public, casting doubt on his initial claims.
In a statement dated November 8, 2024, signed by Zainab Otega, Deji Adeyanju and Partners formally announced their withdrawal from the case. The statement, titled “Public Statement on the Alleged Assault on Mr. Stephen Abuwatseya: Withdrawal of Legal Representation,” explained that the decision was taken to safeguard the firm’s integrity.
The law firm’s statement read: “We wish to formally announce our withdrawal from the legal representation in the case involving Mr. Stephen Abuwatseya. On October 28, 2024, Mr. Abuwatseya approached us seeking redress for an alleged assault. After reviewing his complaint, we decided to represent him on a pro-bono basis to protect his rights. This led to the arraignment of the accused.
“However, given recent developments and after careful consideration, we have chosen to step back to preserve our professional integrity and uphold the highest standards in legal practice. We extend our best wishes to Mr. Abuwatseya and reiterate our ongoing commitment to defending the rights of the oppressed and underprivileged.”
Following the fallout, Ikwechegh issued a public apology via Instagram. He expressed regret for his behaviour during the incident, apologising to the Bolt driver, the Nigerian Police Force, and the National Assembly. The lawmaker apologized that his actions were unbecoming of a public official, irrespective of the circumstances. Ikwechegh also noted that he and Abuwatseya had resolved the matter through alternative dispute resolution, reaching a “mutual and respectful agreement.” This development appears to have brought an end to the legal dispute, highlighting the impact of public perception and the complexities surrounding the incident.
