The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has reported the Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Ibrahim Lamuwa, to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation over allegations of sexual harassment.
In a letter dated May 27, 2024, Tuggar expressed concern over the serious nature of the allegation levelled against Lamuwa by Mrs Simisola Ajayi, emphasizing the need for an urgent and thorough investigation.
“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,” Tuggar wrote.
When confirmed, the Ministry’s spokesperson, Amb. Eche Abu-Ode, stated, “Yes. The complaint is true.”
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ibrahim Lamuwa
Ajayi, through her lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), petitioned the Minister, accusing Lamuwa of serial sexual harassment and requesting a thorough investigation.
According to the petition, Ajayi alleged multiple instances of harassment, creating an unsafe and uncomfortable working environment. She claimed that during a policy retreat on October 7, 2023, Lamuwa made inappropriate advances, suggesting she join him in his hotel room, and continued with inappropriate remarks throughout the retreat.
Lamuwa declined comment, saying he was in a meeting, and did not respond to a message sent to his WhatsApp. The Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alkasim Abdulkadir, simply said, “No comment. The matter is being looked into by the relevant authorities.”
PUNCH