The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has asked Simisola Fajemirokun Ajayi, an employee of the federal ministry of foreign affairs, to attend an interrogation session as part of an investigation into suspected corruption.
Ajayi, who is married, recently made headlines by accusing Ibrahim Lamuwa, the permanent secretary of the ministry, of sexual harassment. Reports indicate that Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, informed the Head of Service of the Federation, Folasade Yemi-Esan, about these allegations against Lamuwa.
On May 27, Minister Tuggar conveyed his concerns about the gravity and persistence of the allegations in a letter. Ajayi, represented by Femi Falana, a senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN), had previously informed Tuggar about Lamuwa’s alleged misconduct.
Lamuwa, however, denied the accusations, stating that he had turned down Ajayi’s request for financial assistance during a foreign trip.
In a recent development, the ICPC has summoned Ajayi to appear at its headquarters in Abuja today, June 14, for an “interview” regarding the matter.
According to a letter dated June 11 addressed to the minister of foreign affairs, the ICPC stated that it is “investigating an alleged violation of provisions of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000 and it has become imperative to have recourse to your office.”
“In view of the above, pursuant to section 28 and 40 of the said Act, you are kindly requested to release and direct Mrs Simisola Fajemirokun Ajayi of the ministry to appear for an interview before the undersigned at the Commission’s headquarters, Abuja, on Friday 14th June, 2024 at 1100 hours,” the letter reads in part.
The letter, which was signed by S. Yahaya, acting director of information at the ICPC, did not give details of the violated act for which Ajayi was invited.