The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ibrahim Adamu Lamuwa, has been suspended pending the outcome of an investigation into allegations of sexual harassment made against him.

The investigation was set up by the Head of Service, Folashade Yemi-Esan, following a petition submitted by a staff member, Simisola Ajayi, on behalf of another staff member.

According to the petition, Lamuwa allegedly engaged in serial sexual harassment, creating an uncomfortable and unsafe working environment.

The allegations include inappropriate advances and remarks made during a policy retreat on October 7, 2023, and an incident on November 10, 2023, where Lamuwa allegedly invited Ajayi to travel to Hong Kong with promises of personal benefits.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, brought the allegations to the attention of the Head of Service in a letter dated May 27, 2024, expressing concern over the gravity of the matter and requesting that it be handled accordingly.

The minister wrote: “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.

An official familiar with the case has confirmed that a probe panel has been set up to investigate the matter thoroughly.

The official stated that pieces of evidence and witnesses will be gathered to ensure that the matter is not swept under the carpet.

The minister is also said to be very interested in the outcome of the investigation, given the sensitive nature of the allegations and the fact that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs operates globally.