Foreign Affairs Minister Tuggar writes HoS over Perm. Sec’s alleged sexual misconduct to married staff
The Perm Sec has sexually harassed several married women in the ministry. This is not an isolated...
Foreign Affairs Minister Tuggar writes HoS over Perm. Sec’s alleged sexual misconduct to married staff
Story from Usman UMAR
In a startling disclosure, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar has penned a formal complaint to the Head of Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, regarding the alleged sexual misconduct of a married staff member, Mrs Simisola Fajemirokun, by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Ambassador Ibrahim Adamu Lamuwa.
The grievance was outlined in a letter obtained on 27th May, 2024, titled; ‘RE: FORMAL COMPLAINT ABOUT SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF MRS SIMISOLA FAJEMIROKUN AJAYI BY AMBASSADOR IBRAHIM ADAMU LAMUWA (PERMANENT SECRETARY MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS).”
The letter, signed by the Minister, stated; “I am writing to report a formal complaint against the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Ibrahim Adamu Lamuwa regarding allegations of sexual harassment.
“Considering the seriousness of the issue, I find it important to bring it to your attention and request that you address it appropriately.
“Attached is a copy of the complaint I received via email. I also want to assure you that I am available to provide any assistance needed in carrying out your duties.”
A source within the ministry who requested anonymity, disclosed that this is not the first instance of the Perm. Sec sexually harassing a married female staff member.
“The Perm Sec has sexually harassed several married women in the ministry. This is not an isolated
incident, a more serious case occurred last year and the ministry officials attempted to cover it up and handle it internally.
“However, some female staff members have decided that if this matter is not resolved, they will take legal action and bring the issue to the public eye, as they have had enough of this unfortunate abuse by this man,” the source added.
When questioned about the situation, Special Adviser, Media and Communications Strategy to the Foreign Affairs Minister, Alkassim Abdulkadir simply responded with, ‘It’s accurate.’
In regards to sexual harassment, Section 351 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria states, “Any individual who unlawfully assaults another person is guilty of a misdemeanor and can be sentenced to imprisonment for up to one year.
Section 352: Any person who assaults another with the intent of engaging in unnatural sexual activities is guilty of a felony and can be imprisoned for up to fourteen years.
While Section 360 said: Any person who indecently assaults a woman or girl is guilty of a misdemeanor and can be imprisoned for up to two years.