Employees Stage Demonstration
On Tuesday, staff members of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs staged a protest in response to ongoing sexual scandal allegations within the ministry. Employees were seen and heard singing solidarity songs, chanting “Insowendo in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs” throughout the demonstration.
The protest followed multiple allegations of sexual misconduct involving high-ranking officials in the ministry. These allegations have caused significant unrest among the staff, leading to the public demonstration.
Minister’s Formal Complaint
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, had formally lodged a complaint with the Head of Service of the Federation regarding allegations of sexual harassment against the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ambassador Ibrahim Adamu Lamuwa. An allegation involving the ambassador with Mrs. Simisola Ajayi. The minister also officially emphasised the seriousness of allegation and need for urgent and thorough investigation.
Petition by Mrs. Simisola Ajayi
Mrs. Simisola Ajayi, in a petition dated May 29, 2024, addressed to Tuggar, accused the permanent secretary of serial sexual harassment. Represented by her lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), Ajayi called for a thorough investigation into the actions of Amb. Lamuwa. The petition, signed by Adebayo A. Oniyelu of Falana & Falana’s, detailed multiple instances of harassment, creating an unsafe and uncomfortable working environment.
Specific Incidents of Harassment
Ajayi’s petition cited several incidents, including a policy retreat on October 7, 2023, where Lamuwa allegedly made inappropriate advances and suggested she join him in his hotel room. Additionally, she reported an incident on November 10, 2023, where Lamuwa invited her to travel to Hong Kong, promising significant personal benefits from the trip. These allegations have intensified calls for immediate action and justice within the ministry.
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