Minister files petition with HOS over alleged sexual harassment by Perm Sec

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has written a letter of complaint to the Head of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, demanding that action be taken against the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ambassador Ibrahim Adamu Lamuwa, over the alleged sexual harassment of a married staff member, Mrs. Simisola Fajemirokun.

The complaint was contained in a letter dated May 27, 2024, entitled: “Subject: Official Complaint Regarding Sexual Harassment of Ms. Simisola Fajemirokun Ajayi by Ambassador Ibrahim Adamu Lamuwa (Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs).”

In the letter, the minister stated: “I am compelled to write to inform you of a formal complaint against the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ibrahim Adamu Lamuwa, over allegations of sexual harassment.

“Given the seriousness of the matter, I consider it necessary to draw your attention to it and ask you to deal with it accordingly.

“Enclosed please find a copy of the complaint I received via email. May I also assure you that I can continue to assist you in the performance of your duties?”

According to unconfirmed sources, the Permanent Secretary had a habit of sexually harassing married women in the ministry.

When contacted on the issue, Special Adviser to the Minister of Foreign Affairs on Media and Communications Strategy Alkassim Abdulkadir said: “The matter is being investigated by the relevant authorities.”

Lamuwa could face serious trouble if the case against him is admitted as sexual harassment is proscribed under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended.

Section 352 specifically states: “Whoever assaults another person with intent to have unnatural sexual intercourse with him commits a crime and is liable to imprisonment for a term of fourteen years.”

This is further reinforced by Section 360 which states: “Any person who unlawfully and indecently assaults a woman or girl shall be guilty of an offence and shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term of two years.”