A coalition of more than 500 women’s rights and civil society organisations has mounted fresh opposition to the ambassadorial nomination of Abayomi Fasina, former vice chancellor of Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), urging the Senate to halt his confirmation over unresolved allegations of sexual harassment, abuse of office, and misconduct that continue to shadow his tenure at the institution.
The groups, led by Womanifesto, argued that confirming Fasina as Nigeria’s diplomatic representative while legal proceedings against him remain pending would undermine public confidence in government appointments and send the wrong signal about the country’s commitment to accountability, gender justice, and ethical leadership.
In a petition submitted to the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs on Friday and signed by the convener of Womanifesto, Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, the coalition said the nomination raises serious questions about the standards expected of individuals entrusted with representing Nigeria on the global stage.
According to the petitioners, ambassadors are expected to embody the nation’s values and integrity, making it imperative for the Senate to subject the nomination to rigorous scrutiny before granting approval.
“We are deeply concerned about the nomination of the ex-FUOYE , Abayomi Fasina VC, for an ambassadorial role for our nation,” the petition stated.
The coalition maintained that several allegations, including ongoing criminal and civil proceedings involving Fasina, make him unsuitable for a position that requires impeccable character and unquestionable integrity.
“It is our carefully considered opinion, based on several allegations, including ongoing criminal and civil cases against Abayomi Fasina, Mr, that he is not an appropriate candidate for such a position,” the petition read.
The groups noted that ambassadors serve as the face of a nation and are expected to uphold the highest ethical standards.
“An ambassador serves as a representative of a nation’s identity and values. Given this important role, any candidate for an ambassadorial position must embody the highest standards of integrity and impeccable conduct. Where there is a substantial possibility that a candidate lacks integrity, appointing such an individual as an ambassador may expose our nation to international ridicule and undermine its reputation in the global community,” the petition added.
The coalition cited allegations of sexual harassment involving female staff members, noting that related cases are still pending before the National Industrial Court in Abuja and Lagos.
The petitioners also referenced the judgment in Akingbe v. FUOYE (NICN/AK/58/2018), in which a court reportedly faulted actions taken by a panel under Fasina’s administration. According to the groups, the court held that the claimant’s right to fair hearing had been violated and awarded damages of N40 million against the institution.
They argued that the issues before the Senate go beyond an individual nomination and speak directly to Nigeria’s commitment to accountability, human rights, gender equality and institutional integrity.
“In light of the foregoing, we respectfully request that the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs decline to recommend the confirmation of Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina as Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the petition stated.
The coalition further urged lawmakers to exercise their constitutional oversight powers in a manner that protects public trust and reinforces confidence in democratic institutions.
“The issue before the committee concerns public confidence and the credibility of Nigeria’s commitment to accountability, human rights and dignity, gender equality and institutional integrity,” the groups said, calling on the Senate to ensure that its decision reflects the principles of transparency, integrity and good governance.
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