Foreign Affairs Minister Notifies Head of Service of Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Permanent Secretary.

By Caroline Ameh

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has formally brought allegations of sexual harassment against the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ambassador Ibrahim Adamu Lamuwa, to the attention of the Head of Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan.

In a petition dated May 29, 2024, and titled “Request For An Investigation Of Amb. Ibrahim Lamuwa’s Conducts Of Sexual Harassment At The Place Of Work, Abuse Of Office Official Intimidation And Discrimination,” Ambassador Tuggar outlined the disturbing allegations made by Mrs. Simisola Fajemirokun Ajayi, an employee of the ministry.

Mrs. Ajayi, through her lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), disclosed instances of sexual harassment, intimidation, oppression, and discrimination allegedly perpetrated by Ambassador Lamuwa. She urged the minister to investigate the permanent secretary and ensure appropriate disciplinary actions are taken.

The petition detailed specific incidents of harassment, including inappropriate comments and advances made by Ambassador Lamuwa towards Mrs. Ajayi during work-related events and meetings. Despite previous interventions by the minister, the harassment reportedly continued, creating an unsafe and uncomfortable work environment for Mrs. Ajayi and other staff members.

Ambassador Tuggar, in his letter to Dr. Yemi-Esan, emphasized the gravity of the matter and expressed his readiness to assist in any way necessary to address the issue effectively. He attached a copy of the petition received from Mrs. Ajayi’s lawyers, underscoring the urgency and seriousness of the situation.

The petition also highlighted the broader impact of Ambassador Lamuwa’s alleged misconduct, citing additional instances of harassment and abuse towards female directors and foreign service officers within the ministry.

In light of these allegations, the petition called for a thorough investigation into Ambassador Lamuwa’s conduct and requested that appropriate disciplinary measures be taken if he is found liable. The aim is to not only address the immediate concerns raised by Mrs. Ajayi but also to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

The Head of Service is expected to conduct a detailed investigation into the matter and take appropriate action in accordance with established policies and ethical standards.