Sexual Abuse Scandal Rocks Nigeria’s NCC as USPF Director Accused of Molesting Ex-Presidential Aide’s Daughter

A major scandal has erupted within Nigeria’s Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), part of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), following allegations that a high-ranking director named Yomi sexually abused the daughter of a former presidential aide. Sources suggest that the NCC management is trying to cover up the incident, a move reminiscent of a similar case during the tenure of the previous Executive Vice Chairman, Prof. Umar Danbatta.

The victim’s father, who served under President Muhammadu Buhari, has not been named to protect the victim’s identity. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about sexual misconduct and abuse of power within Nigerian institutions.

The Universal Service Provision (USP) was established under the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) No. 19 of 2003, with the Board of the NCC tasked with overseeing the USP Fund’s operations. Since its inception in August 2006, the USP Fund has undertaken various projects aimed at improving communication services across Nigeria.

Amid these troubling allegations, Dr. Aminu Maida, who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu as the new Executive Vice Chairman in October 2023, has been thrust into the spotlight. Maida succeeded Danbatta, who was removed as part of President Tinubu’s broader strategy to enhance Nigeria’s digital economy and financial inclusion.

Insiders reveal that the NCC’s management is attempting to suppress the current allegations, mirroring a past incident during Danbatta’s administration where a senior staff member was disciplined but not dismissed. This previous case reportedly involved a senior staff member who faced suspension and missed a promotion.

When contacted, the victim’s father neither confirmed nor denied the allegations, directing inquiries to the NCC. In contrast, NCC’s Head of Media and Public Relations, Mr. Reuben Muoka, claimed ignorance of the matter.

This scandal is not isolated. Recently, Ambassador Ibrahim Adamu Lamuwa, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was accused of sexually harassing a female staff member. Mrs. Simisola Fajemirokun Ajayi petitioned the Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, for an investigation into Lamuwa’s conduct. Her lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), detailed a pattern of harassment and intimidation, urging disciplinary action to deter future misconduct.