The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has reportedly arrested Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, a lawmaker who assaulted a driver in the nation’s capital on Sunday Evening.
The Police spokesperson for the Command, Josephine Adeh, confirmed that the law maker, Ikwechegh “is at the Maitama Police Station undergoing questioning”.
In a statement on Monday, the Command said the Bolt driver Stephen Abuwatseya reported the matter to the Command.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that Mr. Abuwatseya was delivering a package to Hon. Ikwegh when a dispute arose concerning the method of delivery. During this altercation, Mr. Abuwatseya was reportedly physically assaulted.
“The FCT Police Command expresses grave concern over Hon. Ikwegh’s dismissive attitude toward the office of the Inspector General of Police following the incident. After allegedly slapping the victim, he reportedly remarked with contempt, ‘You can go ahead and call the Inspector General of Police,’ demonstrating a troubling disregard for the authority of law enforcement.
“Currently, the suspect is at the Maitama Police Station undergoing questioning,” the statement read.
The Command said the Commissioner of Police in the FCT, Olatunji Disu, has mandated a thorough investigation into the matter.
“The Command is committed to conducting an impartial investigation and ensuring justice in all cases. Upon completion of the investigation, appropriate legal action will be taken.”
The incident has elicited wide remarks and condemnation especially as a similar one occurred in the United Kingdom when a lawmaker Mike Amesbury was captured in footage appearing to show him punching a man to the ground and then continuing to attack him.
The video shows the 55-year-old MP, who represents a parliamentary seat in northwest England, repeatedly hitting another man as others nearby shouted: “Stop it”.
Britain’s ruling Labour Party immediately suspended the lawmaker “pending an investigation”.
