Security operatives attached to the convoy of the Controller General of Prisons, Dr. Peter Ezenwa Ekpendu, on Wednesday evening allegedly assaulted a female lawmaker, Hon. Onyemeachi Mprakpor, for overtaking his convoy within the premises of the National Assembly.
The incident took place on Wednesday close to the exit gate of the National Assembly when the female lawmaker from Delta State, Mrs. Onyemachi Mrukpor, was driving out of the premises.
Security aides attached to the convoy of Ekpendu allegedly descended on her and slapped her for overtaking the convoy of the CG.
Lawmakers claimed that Ekpendu, a very senior government official, merely sat in his car and watched as his aides assaulted the female member. They alleged that he did nothing to stop his aides.
The petition was brought before the House of Representatives at plenary Thursday by the Minority Leader, Hon. Leo Ogor.
“They blocked her car, and started bashing her car. When she wound down the windows, an aide slapped her in the face. The CG sat in the comfort of his car while this happened,” Ogor narrated.
Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, The House Leader, also informed the House that Mrukpor called him immediately the alleged assault took place to make a report.
“She called me and she was crying. I have not seen a thing like this before.
“This is the time we need to rally behind her not just as a member but as a woman.
“This is a clear, straight case; that the attacker is guilty of assault; he is guilty of battery. There is vicarious liability in this case”, Gbajabiamila said.
Also, the House summoned the unit heads of all security agencies posted to the National Assembly to explain the conduct of their men, who reportedly watched as the member was attacked without intervening.
