The House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs has summoned the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ibrahim Lamuwa, over allegations of sexual harassment.
The committee, chaired by Oluwole Oke, a People’s Democratic Party lawmaker representing Obokun/Oriade federal constituency of Osun State, announced that Lamuwa is scheduled to appear before them on Thursday.
The allegations against Lamuwa were made by Simisola Ajayi, a married female aide to Yusuf Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Ajayi accused Lamuwa of “persistent sexual harassment” in a petition filed through Femi Falana, a senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
According to the petition, Ajayi reported that on October 7, 2023, during a retreat to review President Bola Tinubu’s 4D policy, Lamuwa questioned her about not spending the night at the hotel after the event. The petition further stated that Lamuwa expressed a desire for Ajayi to come to his room, an invitation she declined, citing her responsibilities as a nursing mother.
On May 27, 2024, Minister Tuggar notified Folasade Yemi-Esan, the Head of Service of the Federation, about the allegations against Lamuwa, emphasizing the “gravity of the matter.” Subsequently, in June, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission invited Ajayi for interrogation regarding the issue.
Oke, speaking to newsmen, confirmed that the committee is taking the allegations seriously and expects Lamuwa to address the accusations during his appearance.
