The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has taken formal steps in response to allegations of sexual harassment against the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Ibrahim Lamuwa.
News About Nigeria reports that Tuggar has lodged an official complaint with the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HOCSF) concerning the allegations made by Mrs. Simisola Ajayi.
The allegations were brought forward by Mrs. Simisola Ajayi in a petition dated May 29, 2024, addressed to Minister Tuggar.
Ajayi, represented by her lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), called for a thorough investigation into Ambassador Lamuwa’s conduct.
The petition, signed by Adebayo A. Oniyelu LP of Falana & Falana’s Chambers, was 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.”
Ajayi detailed multiple instances of harassment allegedly perpetrated by Lamuwa, which she claims created an unsafe and uncomfortable working environment.
She cited an incident during a policy retreat on October 7, 2023, where Lamuwa allegedly made inappropriate advances, suggesting she join him in his hotel room, and continued with inappropriate remarks throughout the retreat.
Another incident cited occurred on November 10, 2023, where Lamuwa allegedly invited Ajayi to travel to Hong Kong, promising personal benefits from the trip.
In a letter dated May 27, 2024, Tuggar expressed his deep concern over the serious nature of the allegations and stressed the need for an urgent and thorough investigation.
The letter, titled “Re: Official Complaint Regarding Sexual Harassment Of Mrs. Simisola Fajemirokun Ajayi By Ambassador Ibrahim Adamu Lamuwa (Permanent Secretary, Ministry Of Foreign Affairs),” read, “I am compelled to write to inform you of a formal complaint against the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ibrahim Adamu Lamuwa, on allegations of sexual harassment. Bearing in mind the gravity of the matter, I feel it necessary to draw your attention to it and ask that you handle it accordingly.”
He included an attachment of the complaint received via email and assured the HOCSF of his full cooperation in the investigation.
“May I also assure you that I remain available to provide you with any assistance required in discharging your responsibilities?” he added.
The Ministry’s spokesperson, Ambassador Eche Abu-Ode, confirmed the development in an interview. “Yes, the complaint is true,” Abu-Ode said.
