In a country where socio-economic disparity is glaringly apparent, the relationship between Nigeria’s elite and ordinary citizens often reflects a concerning trend. It is a recurring behaviour that causes anxiety in society.
Recently, Hon. Alex Ikwechegh, a House of Representatives member representing Abia North and South Federal Constituency, came under fire for allegedly assaulting a Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, in Abuja. The federal lawmaker assaulted the delivery driver and threatened to make him disappear for telling the former to come out of his apartment and collect the package the driver was meant to deliver to him. Although he has apologised publicly through various media channels, his apology was prompted by the backlash over his dishonourable deed.
The incident, led to Ikwechegh’s interrogation by the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, which highlights a common trend of abuse and oppression of the underprivileged by those in power in Nigeria. While shocking to some, this behaviour has become far too common in Nigerian society, where the privileged frequently wield their influence with impunity, often at the expense of everyday citizens.
This case has garnered significant attention among netizens and the general public, not only for its details but also for what it reveals about the societal culture of elitism and entitlement pervasive among Nigeria’s wealthy and powerful. The interrogation of a public official, while necessary, is only one step in addressing a deeper issue — the consistent maltreatment of the downtrodden by those who feel shielded from the law by their privilege.
In Nigeria, incidents like the alleged assault by Hon. Ikwechegh are not isolated. Across the nation, elites repeatedly display behaviours that assert their dominance over individuals they deem ‘beneath’ them. This behaviour is often directed toward service providers such as drivers, domestic staff, and vendors — individuals working to make a living in an economy that does not favour them.
Numerous examples can be found where wealthy Nigerians, often in positions of authority, have mistreated or maltreatment lower-income individuals without facing significant consequences. Whether it is verbal abuse, physical assault, or the withholding of payment for services rendered, such behaviour has become an ingrained aspect of Nigeria’s societal structure. This trend is sustained by a cultural acceptance of hierarchy, where powerful figures view their influence as justification to trample on the rights and dignity of others who are below their socio-economic and political status.
At the heart of this phenomenon, is Nigeria’s profound socio-economic divide, where elites occupy a space far removed from the realities faced by the average Nigerians. While a small segment of the population enjoys access to immense wealth and privileges, the majority struggle with limited access to basic needs. This disparity not only creates a tangible divide but also reinforces a sense of entitlement among the wealthy.
For many elites, the idea of accountability is a foreign concept. This has led to a system where the downtrodden is seen as dispensable or replaceable, with little protection from maltreatment. The case of Hon. Ikwechegh’s alleged assault on a Bolt driver exemplifies this mindset. For the Bolt driver, as for countless others in his position, this incident likely reflects a routine experience of humiliation and disregard from powerful patrons.
The wealth gap, coupled with Nigeria’s hierarchical society, provides fertile ground for these abuses. When public figures or wealthy individuals are rarely held accountable, a dangerous precedent is set, that some individuals are, in effect, ‘above the law.’ For a nation striving toward equality and democracy, this system of selective accountability and justice threatens not only individuals but the entire structure of society.
The Nigerian legal system has often been criticised for its susceptibility to influence, particularly in cases involving elites. Many public figures enjoy substantial connections within the judiciary, law enforcement, and political circles, enabling them to escape or minimise the consequences of their actions. Instances of bribery, favouritism, and intimidation have unfortunately become common elements within the justice system.
Law enforcement agencies often find themselves in a difficult position, especially when dealing with cases involving powerful figures. Whether due to external pressure or internal bias, investigations involving elite suspects are frequently downplayed or dropped altogether. This disparity in legal consequences creates an environment where elites can act with impunity, knowing that the system will, more often than not, shield them from full answerability.
In contrast, everyday Nigerians who commit even minor infractions are often met with swift and severe consequences. This inconsistency undermines public trust in the legal system and strengthens the perception that the laws are made for the poor, not for the rich.
Social media have played an increasingly significant role in holding elites accountable for their actions. In a society where traditional media channels are often cautious about criticising powerful figures, social media provide a platform where ordinary Nigerians can voice their frustrations, advocate for justice, and demand action. Through viral posts, Nigerians have been able to spotlight abuses that might otherwise have gone unnoticed, forcing the hands of authorities to address situations they would prefer to ignore. This is evident in the case of the Bolt driver, Abuwatseya.
In the case of Hon. Ikwechegh, public reaction on social media brought further attention to the incident, amplifying calls for justice and accountability. Social media have not only exposed instances of abuse but have also empowered citizens to challenge the culture of impunity that pervades Nigerian society.
However, while social media platforms can draw attention to injustices, it is only a temporary solution. In the absence of systemic changes, these moments of public outrage will remain isolated incidents rather than catalysts for meaningful reform. Social media can bring awareness, but true justice requires a fair and impartial legal system that applies the law equally to all citizens, regardless of their social status.
To address these issues, Nigeria must emphasise judicial reforms and implement systems that ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability within its legal framework. Equal treatment under the law is essential to bridging the divide between elites and ordinary citizens and to building a society rooted in justice and fairness. To this end, the new Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun has promised to champion judiciary reforms for effective justice administration.
Holding public officials and wealthy individuals answerable is not only a matter of legal necessity but a moral imperative. The recent interrogation of Hon. Alex Ikwechegh, by the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, represents a step in the right direction, but it must not end there. For justice to be meaningful, it must be seen and felt by all citizens. The rule of law should apply equally to everyone, regardless of wealth or influence.
Ultimately, Nigeria’s path toward equality and justice requires a commitment to dismantling systems of privilege and establishing a culture of accountability. Only when the law is applied uniformly can Nigeria hope to build a society that respects and protects the rights of all its citizens, from public officials to the everyday service provider.
Odaro, a columnist, lectures in the Department of Mass Communication Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi, and can be reached via [email protected]
