A Video of a Nigerian Lawmaker’s Assault on a Delivery Driver Sparks Outrage
A recent incident in Abuja, the Nigerian capital, has left many questioning the actions of a member of the House of Representatives, Alex Ikwechegh. The lawmaker was caught on camera physically attacking a driver who was delivering a package to his residence.
The driver, whose identity has not been disclosed, had requested that the lawmaker come outside to collect the package, which included snails. However, Ikwechegh allegedly became aggressive and began berating the driver for daring to make a request of him, given his status as a representative of the people.
As the situation escalated, Ikwechegh threatened the driver, stating that he could make him “disappear” without repercussions. The physical altercation took a violent turn, with Ikwechegh slapping the driver repeatedly, despite being asked to pay for the delivery fee.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and demands for accountability from the public, with many accusing Ikwechegh of abusing his power and acting with impunity. Social media users have shared their reactions to the video, with some calling for his immediate suspension and others questioning how long such behavior will be tolerated in the country.
One Twitter user, @Yucee_, tweeted, “This is absolute oppression and wickedness. A Bolt driver went to deliver something to a politician, and this happened just because the driver asked the man to come to the car to pick up his stuff! This is what’s happening now in Maitama.” Another user, @Nevosys, commented, “The Honourable expected a full delivery, not to pick up items himself. Delivery drivers should bring items to recipients, not vice versa. But the bolt driver thought he was the main guard to the boss. Most delivery companies operate that way.”
Some users have also expressed concerns about the potential for similar incidents, citing the lack of accountability among elected officials and the tendency for them to act with impunity. For example, @Abalaka_Sunday tweeted, “How about investigating and inviting him about those who have disappeared so far without a trace? There’s a tendency he may have to make some people disappear from someone or people before anything happens. From the words people use, it’s possible confirmation of their historical events.” Another user, @Himesama_01, posted, “Do you know who I am? Yes, we know! You’re one of the wicked, power-drunk individuals making life extra difficult for Nigerians who are already suffering the consequences of your greed and the bad decisions of your government. Utterly revolting.”
As the incident continues to gain attention, many are calling for Ikwechegh’s resignation and condemning his actions as an example of the abuse of power that is endemic in Nigerian politics. The incident has also led to comparisons with similar cases of politicians using their position to exploit and oppress others, with many expressing their frustration and disappointment in the country’s political system.
Others have expressed sympathy for the driver, who was allegedly subjected to physical assault and psychological intimidation, and are calling for justice and accountability for his treatment. As one user, @RachaelEfe, tweeted, “Power intoxicates as swear. Such an irresponsible behavior.” Another user, @Amourab, commented, “The Nigerian dream is just the ability to have money and power to oppress others and show that I’m better than my neighbors. We are generally not good people.”
As the situation continues to unfold, many are left wondering what steps will be taken to address the apparent abuse of power and to bring accountability to elected officials. One user, @Timi_i_, compared the incident to a similar case in the UK, where a director of public inquiries was suspended by his party. “Will the same thing happen in this scenario?” the user tweeted.
