A Kuje Magistrate Court has adjourned hearings on charges against Abia lawmaker Alexander Ikwechegh for alleged assault, granting him bail.

In a case that has sparked national interest, the Kuje Magistrate Court in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory has granted bail to Alexander Ikwechegh, the member of the House of Representatives representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency of Abia State.

The court set bail at N500,000, with two sureties, following allegations of assault and abuse of office against a Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya. Magistrate Abubakar Umar Sai’id, presiding over the case, adjourned the hearing to Friday, 8th November.

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Ikwechegh’s arraignment on Wednesday follows a widely circulated video where he is seen allegedly slapping and threatening Abuwatseya outside his residence in Abuja.

The charges, brought forward by Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, include counts of abuse of office, assault, and threats to life.

Pleading not guilty, Ikwechegh’s counsel quickly moved for bail, which was granted on condition that the two sureties reside within the court’s jurisdiction and provide proof of residence.

Civil society groups and activists have condemned the incident, calling it an example of political impunity. Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC), a civil society organisation, released a statement strongly criticising the lawmaker’s actions.

Signed by Executive Director Okechukwu Nwanguma, the statement described the incident as “a glaring example of abuse of power” that damages not only Ikwechegh’s reputation but also the integrity of the House of Representatives.

Nwanguma stated, “This case involving Alex Ikwechegh reveals a profound lack of humility and respect for public office.”

He continued, “The incident not only shames Ikwechegh but also reflects poorly on the House of Representatives, the police, and the broader political system.” RULAAC’s statement highlighted the systemic problem of public officials exercising unchecked power, with Nwanguma urging for reforms to curb what he described as a “culture of impunity” in Nigeria’s political landscape.

The video, which circulated widely on social media, shows Ikwechegh allegedly slapping Abuwatseya and threatening him. The footage has intensified public calls for accountability and led RULAAC and others to demand justice, not only for Abuwatseya but also for all Nigerians affected by political misuse of power.

“This case must serve as a catalyst for change, leading to reforms that prioritise respect for human rights and the rule of law in Nigeria,” Nwanguma asserted.

With the hearing set for 8th November, the case promises to test Nigeria’s commitment to enforcing the rule of law, particularly for those in positions of power.

RULAAC and other advocacy groups are closely watching the proceedings, urging authorities to ensure that the outcome supports the rights of ordinary Nigerians.

Chima Anthony Nwigwe and three accomplices arrested by the EFCC for alleged hacking and fraudulent bank activities in Abuja.

Chima Anthony Nwigwe, a suspected hacking kingpin, has been arrested alongside three alleged accomplices in a significant operation conducted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja.

The other suspects include Effiong Victor Emmanuel, Mohammed Bello Mahmud, managing director of Downstone Ultimate Limited, and Daminan Ali, all of whom are implicated in serious charges of conspiracy, unauthorized access to bank computer systems, and fraudulent withdrawal of depositors’ funds.

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Dele Oyewale, the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, confirmed the arrests in a statement released on Tuesday. The operation followed actionable intelligence regarding the suspects’ involvement in a hacking syndicate known for compromising the databases of commercial banks.

The EFCC alleged that the group engaged in fraudulent transfers and withdrawals using various digital platforms.

The arrests were made during a carefully coordinated sting operation in Abuja, highlighting the ongoing efforts by the EFCC to combat cybercrime and financial fraud in Nigeria.

Upon concluding their investigation, the suspects are expected to be charged in court, signalling a firm stance against such criminal activities.

This incident adds to the growing concerns surrounding cybercrime in Nigeria, where hackers increasingly target financial institutions and their customers.

The EFCC continues to take proactive measures to protect the integrity of the banking sector and safeguard the funds of depositors across the country.

Ogun State Government has shut down Obada Grammar School after the death of student Monday Arijo, sparking an investigation into corporal punishment practices.

The Ogun State Government has officially closed Obada Grammar School in Obada, Idi-Emi, following the tragic death of a Senior Secondary 2 (SS2) student, Monday Arijo.

The closure comes in the wake of the arrest and suspension of the teacher allegedly responsible for the student’s death, which was reportedly linked to corporal punishment.

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In a statement released to journalists on Tuesday by Mr Lekan Adeniran, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Dapo Abiodun, it was confirmed that the school’s principal, Mrs Tamrat Onaolapo, had also been suspended.

She faced disciplinary action after allowing corporal punishment, which is prohibited under state regulations.

The statement noted, “The closure of the school was based on the directive of the state governor, Dapo Abiodun, who has also directed that a panel should be set up to investigate the circumstances that led to the unfortunate incident.

The governor has promised that those liable by the outcome of the investigation will be made to face the full wrath of the law.”

In a show of support, representatives from the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology visited the family of the deceased student to express condolences and gather information regarding the incident.

This delegation included the Director of the Secondary and Higher Education Department, along with various educational officials and union representatives.

During their visit, the officials conveyed their heartfelt sympathies and pledged the support of the state government to the grieving family.

They assured the family that a thorough investigation would be conducted to uncover the facts surrounding the incident and that accountability would be pursued.

Furthermore, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Idi-Emi assured the family that the investigation would be comprehensive and that justice would be served.

He also guaranteed the safety of students at the school moving forward.

As part of their support, the officials presented a condolence letter and a cash gift of N500,000 to the family, who expressed their profound grief and shock over the sudden loss of their son.

This incident has sparked significant concern regarding the practices of corporal punishment in schools and has prompted calls for stricter regulations to ensure student safety.

The government has reiterated its commitment to creating a supportive educational environment and ensuring justice for the bereaved family in light of this tragic event.