Lawyers for Stephen Abuwatseye, the Abuja Bolt driver assaulted by House of Representative member Alex Ikwechegh, have withdrawn from the case.
Cyber Reporters reports that Deji Adeyanju and Partners cited the need to protect their professional integrity and maintain ethical standards.
Abuwatseye had sought help after being assaulted at Ikwechegh’s Abuja residence while delivering food.
Cyber Reporters gathered that Ikwechegh was arraigned at a Kuje Magistrate Court in Abuja and granted bail.
However, Abuwatseye recently apologized to Ikwechegh, prompting the law firm’s withdrawal.
Reacting, a statement by the law firm signed by Zainab Ortega reads:
“We wish to formally announce the withdrawal of our legal representation in the case involving the alleged assault of Mr. Stephen Abuwatseye.
“On October 28, 2024, Mr. Stephen Abuwatseye walked into our law firm, visibly distressed, and sought redress over an alleged assault.
“Following his complaint, and having verified his claim, we took steps to protect Mr. Stephen Abuwatseye’s rights, on pro bono basis, culminating in the arraignment of the alleged assaulter.
“However, in view of recent developments and after careful consideration, we have made the decision to withdraw our legal representation in other to protect our professional integrity and maintain the highest ethical standard in the legal profession.
“We wish Mr. Stephen Abuwatseye the very best, while we assure the general public of our continuous commitment towards protecting the rights of the oppressed and indigent members of the society.”