Counsel Withdraws from Abuja Bolt Driver and Abia Rep’s Lawsuit

The law firm Deji Adeyanju and Partners has announced that it is no longer representing Bolt driver Stephen Abuwatseya, who was allegedly assaulted by Alex Ikwechegh, the House of Representatives member for Aba North/South, Abia State.

Activist Deji Adeyanju shared this update on the social media platform X on Friday.

The incident took place on October 28, 2024, when Ikwechegh allegedly assaulted Abuwatseya, who had arrived at his residence to deliver a package.

A viral video of the altercation at Ikwechegh’s home in Maitama, Abuja, showed the lawmaker slapping and verbally abusing Abuwatseya after the driver requested that Ikwechegh come outside to collect a package of snails.

The incident sparked widespread condemnation across Nigeria, with many calling for an investigation.

Following an inquiry by the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, Ikwechegh was granted bail in the amount of ₦500,000 by a Kuje Magistrates’ Court. He faced three charges: abuse of office, assault, and threat to life. The case was adjourned to November 8, 2024, for further proceedings.

However, in a video released on November 7, 2024, Abuwatseya issued a public apology to Ikwechegh, expressing regret for provoking the lawmaker and seeking forgiveness from Nigerians.

On November 8, 2024, Deji Adeyanju and Partners issued a statement titled “Public Statement on the Alleged Assault on Mr. Stephen Abuwatseya: Withdrawal of Legal Representation,” signed by Zainab Otega.

The statement explained that the firm’s decision to withdraw from the case was necessary to uphold its 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 remorse for his behavior during the altercation.

In an Instagram post, he apologized to the Bolt driver, the Nigerian Police Force, and the National Assembly, acknowledging that his actions did not meet the standards expected of a public official, regardless of any provocation.

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