Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs, has written a formal complaint to the Head of Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan.
He called for urgent action against the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Ibrahim Adamu Lamuwa, following allegations of sexual harassment involving a married female staff member, Mrs. Simisola Fajemirokun.
The complaint was contained in a letter dated, 27th May 2024, with the title: “Re: Official Complaint Regarding Sexual Harassment Of Mrs Simisola Fajemirokun Ajayi By Ambassador Ibrahim Adamu Lamuwa (Permanent Secretary Ministry Of Foreign Affairs).”
The letter reads in part: “I am compelled to write to inform you of a formal complaint against the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Ibrahim Adamu Lamuwa on allegations of sexual harassment.
“Bearing in mind the gravity of the matter, I feel it necessary to draw your attention to it and ask that you handle it accordingly.
“Please find attached a copy of the complaint I received via email. May I also assure you that I remain available to provide you with any assistance required in discharging your responsibilities?”
When questioned about the matter, Alkassim Abdulkadir, Special Adviser for Media and Communications Strategy to the Foreign Affairs Minister, stated, “The matter is being looked into by appropriate authorities.”
If the allegations against Lamuwa are proven true, he could face serious consequences as sexual harassment is strongly condemned by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended. Section 352 of the Constitution defines assault with intent to engage in sexual activity against the victim’s will as a felony, punishable by up to fourteen years in prison.
Additionally, Section 360 stipulates that anyone who unlawfully and indecently assaults a woman or girl commits a misdemeanour and may be imprisoned for up to two years.
