Nigerian Lawmaker gets N500,000 bail on charges of assault, threat to life

 

Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, a member of the House of Representatives representing the Aba North and South federal constituency of Abia State, appeared before an Abuja Chief Magistrate Court in Kuje on Wednesday, charged with allegedly assaulting a bolt driver at his residence.

Ikwechegh pleaded not guilty to the First Information Report filed by the Nigerian Police Force, which includes charges of abuse of office, assault, and threats to life.

Following his plea, prosecution counsel Mr. A. Umar requested a date for a full hearing on the case. In response, Ikwechegh's lawyer made an oral application for bail, arguing that the charges were bailable and that the defendant is entitled to the presumption of innocence under the 1999 Constitution.

Magistrate Abubakar Umar Sai’id agreed to grant bail and set it at N500,000, requiring two sureties of the same amount. The court emphasized that the sureties must reside within its jurisdiction and provide utility bills as proof of residence.

The case was adjourned until November 8 for trial.

The incident gained attention after a video surfaced showing Ikwechegh slapping the bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, multiple times. The lawmaker reportedly reacted to what he perceived as rude behavior from the driver, making threatening remarks about his ability to make the driver "disappear."

Following public backlash, Ikwechegh issued a public apology for his actions. Among those present in court were Mr. Deji Adeyanju, the lawyer representing the complainant.