A magistrate court in Kuje, Abuja, has granted N500,000 bail to Alex Ikwechegh, a member of the House of Representatives, following his arraignment on charges related to the alleged assault of Stephen Abuwatseya, a Bolt driver.
The federal lawmaker pleaded not guilty to a three-count charge of assault and threat to life, filed by the Office of the Inspector-General of Police.
The incident, which took place on October 27, has drawn significant public criticism after a video surfaced online showing Ikwechegh in an altercation with Abuwatseya.
The viral footage quickly fueled calls for accountability, with many Nigerians urging a thorough investigation.
The Inspector-General of Police’s Special Investigation Unit is currently leading the inquiry into the case.
The arraignment, which took place on Wednesday, has captured public interest as a potential test of the justice system’s handling of cases involving public officials.
Many Nigerians await the court’s final ruling, viewing it as a critical moment for accountability and transparency among elected representatives.
The case has also sparked conversations about the conduct of public officials and the expectations for their behavior in private and public spheres.