The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has reported a case of alleged sexual harassment against the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Ibrahim Lamuwa to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation.
Tuggar through a letter to the HOCSF dated May 27, 2024, said he is worried about the serious nature of the allegation levelled against the permanent secretary by Mrs. Simisola Ajayi, and urged that the matter be urgently and thoroughly addressed.
Titled, “Re: Official Complaint Regarding Sexual Harassment Of Mrs. Simisola Fajemirokun Ajayi By Ambassador Ibrahim Adamu Lamuwa (Permanent Secretary Ministry Of Foreign Affairs)”, the letter reads: “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 attached Mrs. Ajayi’s formal complaint received via email to the report he submitted to the Head of Service, 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 petitioner in her email to the minister, on May 29, 2024, alleged serial sexual harassment from Lawuwa
Through her counsel Femi Falana (SAN), she demanded for a thorough investigation into the actions of Amb. Lamuwa in the petition signed by Adebayo A. Oniyelu LP of Falana & Falana’s, 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 alleged that he had harassed her sexually, which she said made her feel unsafe and uncomfortable in the working environment.
Citing a policy retreat on October 7, 2023, she said Lamuwa allegedly made inappropriate advances towards her, asking her to join him in his hotel room, adding that he made to her inappropriate remarks throughout the retreat.
She cited another instance of November 10, 2023, where she said Lamuwa allegedly invited her on a trip to Hong Kong, promising her significant personal benefits from the trip.
