Law Firm Withdraws from Viral Bolt Driver Assault Case

Bolt Driver and Nigerian Lawmaker Clash Sparks Outrage

 

Can you picture this scenario? Picture yourself as a delivery driver going about your routine and delivering a package of snails to someone, yes snails! Arriving at the destination expecting a straightforward drop off process turns into chaos unexpectedly when you find yourself entangled in an public confrontation, with a government representative, in Abuja on October 28th of 2024; this incident has been creating quite a buzz throughout Nigeria.


Lets analyze it step by step. Stephen Abuwatseya, a Bolt driver, had just arrived at the home of Alex Ikwechegh, a member of the House of Representatives for Aba North/South, with a package. 

But when he asked Ikwechegh to step outside to collect it, the interaction reportedly turned physical. In a video that’s gone viral, the lawmaker is seen slapping and insulting Abuwatseya – a scene that’s left Nigerians outraged and calling for action.


Following the incident, the law firm of popular activist Deji Adeyanju initially took up Abuwatseya's case. Adeyanju, always vocal about issues of justice, seemed ready to fight for the driver. 

But in a twist, Adeyanju’s law firm recently announced they’re withdrawing from the case. Adeyanju shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), leaving many scratching their heads about what might come next for the Bolt driver.


The legal side of things hasn’t been quiet, either. After Ikwechegh was interrogated by the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, he faced charges in court – abuse of office, assault, and threats. The Kuje Magistrates' Court even set his bail at ₦500,000, with the case scheduled for another hearing on November 8. 

But in an unexpected turn, a video surfaced of Abuwatseya apologizing to Ikwechegh, saying he regretted "provoking" the lawmaker. Apologies like this often raise questions, right? Especially in cases where power dynamics are so clear. Nigerians are understandably skeptical, with many feeling this sudden apology might be a bit… convenient.


The ongoing legal proceedings reveal that there is a layer, to this narrative, than apparent.This particular incident goes beyond a mere delivery mishap. 

It delves into themes of authority dynamics promoting transparency. The fair treatment of employees. So what do you think? Is this just a bizarre case of misunderstanding, or a sign of deeper issues?