By IN a somewhat dramatic turn of events, Deji Adeyanju & Partners, a prominent law firm, has announced its withdrawal from representing Mr Stephen Abuwatseye in an ongoing case involving alleged assault.
Recall Abuwatseye was physically and emotionally assaulted by a member of the Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Alexander Ikwechegh in the course of delivering running an errand for him.
Collage of Alexander Ikwechegh and Stephen Abuwatseya
In a public statement released Friday, the firm clarified that while they initially took on the case to uphold Mr Abuwatseye’s rights on a pro bono basis, recent developments have led them to step back.
The incident traces back to 28 October, 2024, when Mr Abuwatseye reportedly approached the firm in visible distress, seeking legal redress over an alleged assault.
The law firm confirmed that after verifying the claims, they arranged for the accused party to be formally arraigned.
Their initial support was described as an act of solidarity with the oppressed, consistent with the firm’s commitment to supporting vulnerable individuals within society.
However, the statement from Deji Adeyanju & Partners signed by Zainab Otega Esq., indicated that their withdrawal stems from concerns about maintaining “professional integrity and the highest ethical standards in the legal profession.”
They did not specify the nature of these recent developments, but emphasised the necessity of their decision.
“This choice was made with great care and consideration,” read the statement.
While details remain limited, the firm expressed their well-wishes for Mr Abuwatseye as he continues with his case, underscoring their dedication to advocacy for indigent members of society.
“We wish Mr Abuwatseye the very best,” they added, assuring the public that their commitment to justice remains unwavering.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has yet to comment on the withdrawal, though the case has drawn public interest.
The firm’s decision highlights the challenges legal professionals sometimes face in balancing ethical obligations with client representation.
Stonix News gathered, however, that Mr Abuwatseye had gone behind to apologise and settled with the embattled lawmaker.
Abuwatseya, reportedly assaulted by the federal lawmaker from Abia State, apologised to the member of the House of Representatives representing Aba North/South Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Hon. Alex Ikwechegh, for initially insulting and provoking the lawmaker when he went to deliver a package to him.
In a video by Abuwatseya, he begged Nigerians to forgive him and equally put the matter behind them.
According to him, “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.”
Abuwatseya continued, calling for unity and forgiveness. “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.”
In his heartfelt message, the driver also took time to thank his family and well-wishers for their support. “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 appreciate all of you. I love you all. Thank you. God bless Nigeria.”
The public apology comes just days after Ikwechegh himself issued a public apology for assaulting the Bolt driver, acknowledging his actions and expressing regret over his behaviour during the altercation.
In a message posted on his Instagram account, the lawmaker apologised to the driver, the Nigerian Police Force, and the National Assembly, asserting that his actions fell short of the standards expected from a public officeholder regardless of how intense the provocation must have been.
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