Africa
Hon. Alex Ikwechegh And The Erosion Of Societal Values, by Hajia Hadiza Mohammed
The unfortunate incident involving Hon. Alex Ifeanyi Mascot Ikwechegh and a cab driver Mr. Stephen Abuwatseyaon the 27th October, 2024 is trending in the Nigerian social media platforms with many calling for the crucifixion of the handsome, personable legislator for assaulting the “ordinary” citizen making an honest living through taxi driving ostensibly for disrespecting him. The case is more amplified because of the status of Hon. Ikwechegh who is a member of House of Reps, representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency. He was also the former chairman the Aba North LGA, a position he was elected into in 2008 at the age of 28. Apart from politics, Hon. Mascot Ikwechegh is a business man and a philanthropist. He is the chairman of the Grossfield Group; a business conglomerate that operates in the construction, real estate and oil and gas sector of the Nigerian economy. He established Alex Ikwechegh Foundation, a platform which he used mainly for philanthropy. In his constituency, he is known to have provided educational support for indigent students, emergency relief for those in need and empowerment for vulnerable group. And clearly, it is for this reason that I am interested in his case.
From this case it could be deduced that Hon. Ikwechegh is not alone in this case of abuse of the rights and privileges of the commoners. Many of these cases of assault go on, on daily basis in our country. Nigeria is a country where the citizens’ rights are trampled upon with impunity by those in authority. Cases of intimidation, bullying, assault and torture especially from officials with the connivance of security operatives are commonplace in our country. And if the citizen Stephen Abuwatseye was not smart enough to record this incident, it would not have come to public knowledge.
Following public outrage, the police have arrested the erring lawmaker and the House of Representatives has summoned him also and referred the matter to the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges for consideration. Moreover, OhanezeNdigbo, the Igbo apex socio-cultural association has reacted to the incident. Ohaneze’s reaction is appropriate and timely, in condemning the action of the erring legislator. According to Ohaneze, the assault on the cab driver reflects not merely a personal failing but a broader societal issue that must be addressed with utmost seriousness. “It is vital to emphasize that the actions of Rep. Ikwechegh stand in stark contrast to the cherished norms and values that define us as a people. As Igbo, we are driven by principles of respect, communal harmony, and protection of the vulnerable…” the Ohaneze statement concluded in brief.
And following the public backlash, Hon. Ikwecheghhas publicly regretted his words and actions and accepted responsibility for his actions. In a public statement he made on the floor of the National Assembly, he regretted his actions while acknowledging that he is human. He apologized to his colleagues in the National Assembly and the generality of Nigerians, stating that he has engaged alternative dispute resolution mechanism to resolve his case with the assaulted cab driver. Among other things, he said that the incident is “a humbling reminder of the need for strength and self-control particularly in a challenging situation…It is especially disheartening as it stands in contrast to the positive strides we have made in our constituency…It serves as a teachable moment for all of us in public service that are held in high standards…”
Indeed, from what Hon. Ikwechegh has to go through in this case: the humbling effect will teach other public officers a lesson on how to treat others.
Undoubtedly, the implication of Hon. Ikwechegh’s apparent indiscretion is that public officers in the country don’t seem to know the enormous responsibilities that they shoulder; they seem not to know what they represent. Just as the OhanezeNdigbo pointed out in their response, it is a reflection of a more perverse societal problem. Some take action without considering the effects only to regret later and that is unexpected of public officers who are supposed to be sober and circumspect at all times being that they represent the people; they make decisions that effects the destiny and millions of others.
Another Implication is that most public officers don’t know their obligations. As public officers who are paid from the tax-payers funds, they are supposed to serve the people and this include respect for the people. But in Nigeria the reverse is the case. Public officers see themselves as lords who should be served. They have no regards for the masses. A responsible public servant will not abuse or assault a citizen in the street in a sane environment without consequences.
Thirdly, it seems because of the privilege of having many security officers around them, many public office-holders don’t know their limits. Many obviously think that they are above the law and could anything and get away with it. The video footage of the incident shows Hon. Ikwechegh boasting that he could make cab driver disappear without a trace and nothing would happen.
All these no doubt indicate decline in societal values and public etiquette. I don’t know the type orientation given to public officers before they assume office. But judging from the conduct of our public officers in Nigeria, it does not to me there is any form orientation given to them. Their work ethics and sense of responsibility leave so much to be desired.I have read and heard of an Adamawa young senator who has the penchant for molesting young girls including married women. If we are to make any progress in this country, this state of affairs must be corrected. Our public officers need a new orientation.
HajiaHadiza Mohammed
An actress, social activist, politician
London, UK
