Top foreign affairs official enmeshed in sex scandal

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been plunged into controversy as its Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Ibrahim Adamu Lamuwa, is at the center of a severe sexual harassment scandal.

This follows a formal complaint lodged by Mrs. Simisola Fajemirokun Ajayi, a married employee of the ministry, who has accused Lamuwa of repeated sexual harassment.

In a petition dated May 29, 2024, and addressed to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, through her lawyer Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), Mrs. Ajayi detailed multiple instances of harassment and called for an urgent investigation and disciplinary action against Lamuwa to prevent future occurrences.

The petition, which highlights a pattern of disturbing behavior, recounts specific incidents where Lamuwa allegedly made inappropriate advances and comments.

For instance, during a policy retreat on October 7, 2023, Lamuwa reportedly pressed Mrs. Ajayi to visit his hotel room, ignoring her explanations about her obligations as a nursing mother. Despite assurances from the minister in the past that such behavior would cease, Mrs. Ajayi claims the harassment resumed in May.

In another harrowing account from November 10, 2023, Lamuwa allegedly proposed a trip to Hong Kong with the promise of changing Mrs. Ajayi’s life, furthering his inappropriate behavior by attempting to hug her against her will. These incidents, among others, have created a toxic and unsafe work environment for Mrs. Ajayi and her colleagues.

The petition further alleges that other female staff members have also faced similar misconduct from Lamuwa, including attempts at sexual assault and professional retaliation against those who resisted his advances. The detailed narrative underscores a culture of intimidation and abuse of power within the ministry, necessitating immediate intervention.

Responding to the petition, Minister Tuggar has officially requested the Head of Service of the Federation to investigate the allegations. In his letter dated May 27, 2024, Tuggar emphasized the seriousness of the complaint and pledged full cooperation to ensure a thorough and fair investigation.

The unfolding scandal has sent shockwaves through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, raising urgent questions about workplace safety and the enforcement of ethical standards within government institutions. As the investigation progresses, there is a growing demand for accountability and justice for the victims of these alleged abuses.

This case is being closely monitored by human rights advocates and the public alike, as the outcome will set a significant precedent for handling such serious allegations within Nigeria’s civil service.