The regulation company Deji Adeyanju and Companions has introduced its withdrawal from representing a Bolt motive force, Stephen Abuwatseya, who used to be allegedly assaulted by way of Alex Ikwechegh, the Space of Representatives member representing Aba North/South of Abia Shape.
Pervasive activist Deji Adeyanju shared this replace on X on Friday.
In line with a document by way of PUNCH On-line, the incident passed off on October 28, 2024, when Ikwechegh allegedly assaulted Abuwatseya, who had arrived to bring a bundle to him.
A viral video captured the altercation at Ikwechegh’s place of abode in Maitama, Abuja, appearing the lawmaker many times slapping and insulting Abuwatseya, who had asked that Ikwechegh come outdoor to bind a bundle of snails supposed for supply.
The incident used to be broadly condemned by way of Nigerians, who known as for an investigation.
Then an interrogation on the Federal Capital Area Police Command, a Kuje Magistrates’ Courtroom granted Ikwechegh bail of ₦500,000. He used to be arraigned on 3 counts: abuse of place of job, attack, and ultimatum to occasion. The case used to be adjourned till November 8, 2024, for a listening to.
Then again, in a video discharged to the clicking on Thursday, November 7, 2024, Abuwatseya apologised to Ikwechegh, expressing be apologetic about for scary the lawmaker and asking Nigerians for pardon.
In a commentary dated November 8, 2024, signed by way of Zainab Otega, Deji Adeyanju and Companions showed its withdrawal in a report titled “Public Statement on the Alleged Assault on Mr Stephen Abuwatseya: Withdrawal of Legal Representation,” explaining the verdict as important to give protection to the company’s integrity.
The commentary learn, “We need to officially announce the withdrawal of our criminal illustration within the case involving the alleged attack of Mr Stephen Abuwatseya.
“On October 28, 2024, Mr Stephen Abuwatseya approached our regulation company, visibly distressed, and sought redress over an alleged attack. Following his criticism, and upcoming verifying his declare, we took steps to give protection to Mr Stephen Abuwatseya’s rights on a pro-bono foundation, make happen the arraignment of the alleged assailant.
“Then again, in view of latest tendencies and upcoming cautious attention, we now have determined to pull out our criminal illustration to give protection to our skilled integrity and maintain the best possible moral requirements within the criminal career.
“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.”
Following the incident, Ikwechegh issued a crowd apology, expressing be apologetic about over his behaviour throughout the altercation.
In a put up on Instagram, he apologised to the Bolt motive force, the Nigerian Police Power and the Nationwide Meeting, acknowledging that his movements fell cut of the factors anticipated of a crowd reputable, without reference to any provocation concerned.
Ikwechegh additionally shared that he and Abuwatseya had preoccupied in backup dispute answer, attaining a “mutual and respectful agreement” to unravel the subject.