Suspended Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary Denies Sexual Harassment Allegation, Claims Minister’s Aide Misinterpreted Joking Conversations

Ambassador Adamu Ibrahim Lamuwa, the suspended Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has strongly denied allegations of sexual harassment leveled against him by Mrs. Simisola O. Fajemirokun-Ajayi, an aide to the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

According to a statement released by Lamuwa’s legal representative, Audu Anuga (SAN), the accusations stem from a misinterpretation of ordinary, joking conversations. Lamuwa insists that his commitment to financial prudence and proper process led to conflicts with Mrs. Fajemirokun-Ajayi, rather than any inappropriate behavior.

The statement categorically refutes any claims of sexual advances or suggestive comments made towards Mrs. Fajemirokun-Ajayi, emphasizing that any remarks made were in a joking manner and not intended to be taken seriously. Specifically, Lamuwa recalled an incident during the Ministry’s Retreat on October 7, 2023, where a colloquial conversation about her being a nursing mother was allegedly misinterpreted.

Lamuwa’s legal team also denied accusations that he invited the minister’s aide to travel with him to Hong Kong, describing such claims as absurd and out of context. The conversation in question was about Hong Kong’s digitization of work processes, not an invitation for travel.

The statement further alleges that Mrs. Fajemirokun-Ajayi’s accusations are a response to Lamuwa’s objections to her improper financial requests, including a reimbursement for a trip to the World Economic Forum without prior approval. It also accuses her of attempting to access sensitive documents beyond her clearance level, which Lamuwa refused.

Lamuwa’s legal representative highlighted his long-standing service in the ministry, stating that he has never faced any previous allegations of harassment. The statement expressed confidence that Lamuwa would be vindicated through due process.

The suspension of Ambassador Lamuwa followed a formal complaint by Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, to the Head of Service, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan. The complaint was based on allegations detailed in a petition by Mrs. Fajemirokun-Ajayi, which recounted instances of alleged harassment and inappropriate behavior.

As the investigation unfolds, Benaoyagha Okoyen, former Nigerian Ambassador to Cuba, has taken over as acting head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The situation remains tense as both parties await further proceedings.