Foreign Affairs Ministry's Permanent Secretary Suspended Over Sexual Harassment Allegation

Ibrahim Lamuwa

Ambassador Ibrahim Lamuwa, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has been suspended by the Office of the Head of Service following allegations of sexual harassment. The suspension is pending the outcome of an investigation into the accusations made against him.

The Head of Service, Folashade Yemi-Esan, confirmed the suspension, stating that a committee has been set up to probe the allegations. The probe was initiated following a petition submitted by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, against Lamuwa. The complainant in the petition, Simisola Ajayi, accused Lamuwa of serial sexual harassment.

In the petition filed by her lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), Ajayi outlined instances of alleged harassment, including inappropriate advances and remarks during a policy retreat and an invitation with promises of personal benefits.

Minister Tuggar expressed concern over the seriousness of the allegations in a letter to the Head of Service, urging appropriate action to be taken. An official familiar with the case stated that the committee will review evidence and hear from witnesses, ensuring a thorough investigation.

Ajayi's petition highlighted a pattern of behavior by Lamuwa that created an unsafe and uncomfortable work environment. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is taking the matter seriously, given its gravity and the need for accountability.