House Refers Abia Rep Member To Ethics Committee For Assauting Bolt Driver

The House of Representatives on Tuesday directed its Committee on Ethics and Privilege to investigate the assault by one of its members, Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, of a bolt driver on Sunday with rules of the House.

The directive of the House stemmed from a matter of privilege by the House Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonbvere, informing members of the disgraceful act which he said affected the image of the House.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over plenary, said even though the affected lawmaker has tendered a touchy apology, the rules of the House must be allowed to prevail.

Kalu said there has been serious pressure on the Parliament to act in a particular way, adding that the House can only act within the confines of its rules, adding that the House rules provide that such issues be investigated and the principle of fairness and justice allowed to prevail.

He said it will be wrong to pronounce any judgement without first hearing from the parties involved and direct the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges to investigate the matter and report back within two weeks.

In moving his matter of privilege, the House Leader said he has been inundated with calls and text messages about the assault on the driver by the lawmaker