The House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs has summoned Ibrahim Lamuwa, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to address allegations of sexual harassment. The invitation follows serious accusations brought against Lamuwa by Simisola Ajayi, a married aide to Yusuf Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The committee, led by Oluwole Oke, a lawmaker from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) representing the Obokun/Oriade federal constituency of Osun State, has scheduled Lamuwa’s appearance for Thursday. Oke confirmed to TheCable that Lamuwa is expected to provide his testimony regarding the accusations of “persistent sexual harassment.”
Ajayi, through her legal representative Femi Falana, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), lodged a formal complaint with Minister Tuggar detailing Lamuwa’s alleged inappropriate conduct. According to the petition, the harassment began during the first retreat to review President Bola Tinubu’s 4D policy on October 7, 2023. During the event, Lamuwa allegedly questioned Ajayi about her decision not to stay overnight at the hotel and subsequently invited her to his room, an invitation she declined, citing her responsibilities as a nursing mother.
Minister Tuggar, acknowledging the severity of the allegations, reported the matter to Folasade Yemi-Esan, the Head of Service of the Federation, on May 27. In his communication, Tuggar emphasized the seriousness of the situation and the need for appropriate action.
In June, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) also became involved, inviting Ajayi for interrogation to further investigate the claims.
As the House Committee on Foreign Affairs prepares to question Lamuwa, there is a growing anticipation of transparency and accountability in addressing the allegations.
