Tinubu Shuffles Top Diplomatic Post Amid Sexual Harassment Allegations

President Bola Tinubu 

Dunoma Ahmed appointed new Perm Sec After Predecessor's ouster...

President Tinubu appoints new Permanent Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Ahmed, amid sexual harassment allegations against former official Ibrahim Lamuwa, who faces investigation into multiple claims of misconduct.

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Dunoma Ahmed as the new Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, according to a statement released by the ministry on Thursday, August 1.

Ahmed takes over from Ibrahim Lamuwa, who is currently under investigation following allegations of sexual harassment made by female staff members. The ministry has taken swift action to address the situation.

Dunoma Ahmed officially assumed his duties as Permanent Secretary on July 23, marking a new chapter for the ministry. The appointment aims to bring stability and leadership to the ministry amidst the ongoing investigation.

“Born on 15th October 1968 in Maiduguri, Bornu State, Dr. Ahmed, who has had an impeccable education and meritorious career, has served in various capacities in public organizations as well as the federal civil service and most recently as the immediate past permanent secretary, federal ministry of youth development,” the statement reads.

In June, Simisola Fajemirokun Ajayi, a married staff member under Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar, submitted a formal complaint alleging sexual harassment by the then-Permanent Secretary, Ibrahim Lamuwa.

Ajayi detailed disturbing incidents in which Lamuwa allegedly engaged in inappropriate behavior, including unwanted physical contact and repeated invitations to his hotel room. Her petition sparked an investigation into the allegations.

In a letter to President Tinubu in July, a group of ministry officials came forward to corroborate Simisola Fajemirokun Ajayi's allegations, revealing that her experience was not an isolated incident. They brought to light a disturbing pattern of behavior, alleging that Ibrahim Lamuwa had a history of sexual harassment throughout his career in public service.

The officials' letter prompted Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar to take action, requesting that Folasade Yemi-Esan, the Head of Service of the Federation, intervene and address the situation appropriately. This move aimed to ensure a thorough investigation and accountability for the alleged misconduct.