The law firm Deji Adeyanju and Partners has announced its withdrawal from representing Bolt driver Stephen Abuwatseya, who was allegedly assaulted by Alex Ikwechegh, a House of Representatives member for Aba North/South in Abia State.
Popular activist Deji Adeyanju shared this update on X on Friday.
The alleged incident took place on October 28, 2024, when Ikwechegh reportedly assaulted Abuwatseya after he arrived to deliver a package.
A viral video showed the altercation outside Ikwechegh’s residence in Maitama, Abuja, capturing the lawmaker repeatedly slapping and insulting Abuwatseya, who had requested that Ikwechegh come outside to collect a package of snails meant for delivery.
The incident drew widespread condemnation from Nigerians, who called for an investigation.
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Following an interrogation at the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, a Kuje Magistrates’ Court granted Ikwechegh bail of ₦500,000.
He was arraigned on charges of abuse of office, assault, and threat to life, with the case adjourned until November 8, 2024, for a hearing.
However, in a video released on Thursday, November 7, 2024, Abuwatseya publicly apologized to Ikwechegh, expressing regret for provoking him and asking Nigerians for forgiveness.
In a statement dated November 8, 2024, signed by Zainab Otega, Deji Adeyanju and Partners confirmed its withdrawal from the case in a document titled “Public Statement on the Alleged Assault on Mr. Stephen Abuwatseya: Withdrawal of Legal Representation,” explaining the decision as necessary to protect the firm’s 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.”
After the incident, Ikwechegh publicly apologized, expressing regret for his actions during the altercation.
In an Instagram post, he extended apologies to the Bolt driver, the Nigerian Police Force, and the National Assembly, acknowledging that his conduct did not meet the standards expected of a public official, regardless of any provocation involved.
Ikwechegh also mentioned that he and Abuwatseya had engaged in alternative dispute resolution, reaching a “mutual and respectful agreement” to resolve the issue.
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