The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ibrahim Lamuwa, has been accused of serial sexual harassment by a married female employee of the ministry, Simisola Ajayi.
Ajayi made the accusation in a petition dated May 29, 2024, and addressed to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar.
Ajayi, in the petition filed by her lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), said multiple instances of harassment allegedly by Lamuwa have created an unsafe and uncomfortable working environment.
The female civil servant stated that during a policy retreat on October 7, 2023, Lamuwa allegedly made inappropriate advances towards her, suggesting she joined him in his hotel room.
She also cited an incident on November 10, 2023, where Lamuwa allegedly invited her to travel to Hong Kong, China, promising significant personal benefits from the trip.
Ajayi, in the petition signed by Adebayo A. Oniyelu LP of Falana & Falana’s, therefore, called for a thorough investigation into the actions of Lamuwa.
Meanwhile, Tuggar has formally lodged a complaint with the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HOCSF) over the allegations levelled against Lamuwa.
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Tuggar lodged the complaint via a letter addressed to the HOCSF dated May 27, 2024.
The letter obtained on Tuesday, June 11, 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.”
The letter included an attachment of the complaint received via email, and Tuggar assured the HOCSF 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 on Tuesday.
“Yes. The complaint is true,” Abu-Ode told Punch.
When contacted for his reaction, Lawuwa declined to comment.
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