House Of Representatives To Interrogate Suspended Permanent Secretary Over Sexual Harassment Allegations

In a significant development, the House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs is set to question Ibrahim Lamuwa, the suspended Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, regarding allegations of sexual harassment. The accusations were brought forward by Simisola Ajayi, an aide to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Yusuf Tuggar.

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The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Edo State branch, has commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his renewed investment in the state’s health sector, describing it as a major boost for healthcare delivery. In a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr. Eustace Oseghale, and made available to journalists in Benin City on Friday, the Association expressed excitement over the planned establishment of a modern Paediatric Centre at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). Dr. Oseghale noted that the project, valued at ₦2.5 billion, would significantly improve child healthcare services in Edo State and beyond, given UBTH’s wide catchment area that serves over eight states. The NMA also hailed the Governor’s planned renovation of the Resident Doctors’ Quarters in Benin, as well as the payment of the Medical Residency Training Fund for members of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) under Edo State Government employment. “We are particularly thrilled about the planned establishment of a modern Paediatric Centre at UBTH, a project estimated at ₦2.5 billion. This initiative will greatly enhance child care services in Edo State and beyond,” Dr. Oseghale stated. He added: “We also applaud the planned renovation of the Resident Doctors’ Quarters in Ezoti, Benin City, and the payment of the Medical Residency Training Fund for our members in the Association of Resident Doctors.” While congratulating Governor Okpebholo on his 55th birthday, the NMA chairman prayed for long life, good health, and greater wisdom for him to continue delivering quality service to Edo people and Nigeria at large.

A few weeks ago, Ajayi, through her lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), submitted a petition to the Office of the Head of Service to the Federation, accusing Lamuwa of sexual harassment. In response, the Head of Service, Folasade Yemi-Esan, established a probe panel and suspended Lamuwa pending the outcome of the investigation.

Oluwole Oke, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs, confirmed that Lamuwa is scheduled to appear before the committee on Thursday. This hearing aims to shed light on the allegations and determine the veracity of the claims made against the suspended Permanent Secretary.

According to the petition submitted by Ajayi, Lamuwa approached her on October 7, 2024, during a retreat to review President Bola Tinubu’s 4D policy. He inquired why she did not stay overnight at the hotel after the event and expressed his desire for her to come to his room. Ajayi, being a nursing mother, declined the invitation, stating that she needed to go home to care for her baby.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Yusuf Tuggar, informed the Head of Service of the allegations against Lamuwa on May 27, 2024. Subsequently, in June, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) invited Ajayi for questioning regarding the allegations.

The House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs aims to conduct a thorough investigation into the sexual harassment allegations against the suspended Permanent Secretary. The committee will ensure that due process is followed and that justice is served.

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