The Apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, stands united in its unwavering commitment to justice, respect, and the cultural integrity of the Igbo people. In recent days, we have been appalled by the shocking and unacceptable behavior displayed by Honorable Alex Ikwechegh, the member of the House of Representatives representing Aba North and South, who has been implicated in a violent altercation with an Uber driver in Abuja, Mr. Stephen Abuwatseya.
This incident, characterized by the use of threatening language and physical aggression, not only endangers the life of an individual but also tarnishes the reputation of the Southeast region. Ohanaeze Ndigbo ardently condemns this egregious conduct and firmly believes that it is imperative for all meaningful Nigerians to vociferously denounce the pervasive scourge of hate speech, violence, and intimidation in our society.
It is vital to emphasize that the actions of Rep Ikwechegh stand in stark contrast to the cherished norms and values that define us as a people. As Igbo, we are driven by principles of respect, communal harmony, and the protection of the vulnerable. The reported assault on Mr. Abuwatseya reflects not merely a personal failing but a broader societal issue that must be addressed with the utmost seriousness. Allowing such behavior to go unchecked would signal a dangerous precedent that undermines the rule of law and erodes public trust in our elected representatives.
We must draw parallels between this incident and the infamous case of former Senator Elisha Abbo, whose public disgrace followed a similar act of violence against a member of the public in 2019. It is a stark reminder of the consequences faced by those who believe they can act without accountability. Ohanaeze Ndigbo unequivocally asserts that there is no amount of image management or public relations maneuvering that can protect Rep Ikwechegh from his rightful confrontation with the law, just as Elisha Abbo faced the consequences of his actions. Public servants must be held to the highest standards of behavior, particularly when they wield authority over others.
Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has stated categorically that our organization will not tolerate any form of violence or intimidation perpetrated against the people, especially by those in positions of elected authority. The videos circulating online, which depict Rep Ikwechegh in a threatening posture toward Mr. Abuwatseya, are a disheartening testament to the kind of behavior we must reject as a society. Such incidents are not merely personal disputes; they are emblematic of a troubling attitude that must be expunged from our political landscape.
We call upon the Inspector General of Police to take immediate and decisive action by formally inviting Rep Ikwechegh for questioning. It is our fervent hope that justice will be served, and that the necessary legal measures will be enacted to ensure that he is held accountable for his actions. Furthermore, we urge every Nigerian, particularly those of us in the Southeast, to stand firm in demanding the immediate arrest and prosecution of Rep Ikwechegh. This must not only serve as a compelling reminder to him, but also establish a clear precedent for all public office holders: that no one, regardless of their position, is above the law.
In conclusion, Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls upon every sector of our society—political leaders, civil society, and the ordinary citizenry—to unite in our demand for justice. Together, we must foster a culture that respects the dignity of all individuals and prioritizes the safety of our communities. Let us strive not only for accountability but for a future where respect, civility, and democratic integrity reign supreme.
Signed,
Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro
Secretary General
Ohanaeze Ndigbo
