By Damilare Adeleye
The e-hailing driver who was assaulted in Abuja during an altercation over a package delivery, Stephen Abuwatseya, has tendered an apology to House of Representatives member representing Aba North and South of Abia State, Alex Ikwechegh.
In a video statement released to the press on Thursday, Abuwatseya expressed “regret” for provoking Ikwechegh and asked Nigerians for forgiveness.
He also urged everyone to move on from the incident.
He said, “Good day, Nigerians. My name is Stephen Abuwatseya. I had a misunderstanding with Rt. Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh a few days ago. I actually want to apologise to him for whatever I must have said or done to provoke him to that level of anger.
“I want to tell Nigerians that it’s not time for us to start dividing ourselves based on religion, tribes, or regions. We should actually come together, see how we can unite this nation, and move it forward.
“Please, Nigerians, let’s forgive and forget, as it’s even contained in our Lord’s Prayer, that ‘Lord, please forgive us, as we forgive those who trespass against us.’ For there is no justice without forgiveness. Thank you very much.”
The driver also thanked his family and well-wishers for their support over the issue.
“I want to use this medium to thank my family members, my parents, my brothers, my uncles and everybody that stood by me. I want to thank all of you. I love you all. Thank you. God bless Nigeria.”
Recall that Ikwechegh was granted bail of N500,000 by the Chief Magistrate Court in Kuje, Abuja, after he was caught on camera assaulting Abuwatseya.
During the court session on Wednesday, Ikwechegh faced three counts bordering on abuse of office, assault, and threat to life.