The Senate has confirmed Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina as a non-career ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, despite opposition from some lawmakers and recent protests by civil society organisations over his nomination.
The confirmation followed the consideration and adoption of the report of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, chaired by Senator Sani Bello. Presenting the report, Senator Simon Lalong (APC, Plateau South) urged the Senate to approve Fasina’s nomination for appointment as a non-career ambassador and high commissioner.
The committee’s report sparked debate on the Senate floor, with some lawmakers, including Senator Adams Oshiomhole, raising objections to the nomination, while others supported the recommendation. Senator Cyril Fasuyi (APC, Ekiti North), who is a member of the committee, also expressed reservations.
However, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Abdul Ningi defended the committee’s recommendation, maintaining that the Senate should rely on the findings of the relevant investigative authorities.
According to the committee, the allegations against Fasina had been investigated by the governing council of his university and the Nigeria Police, with both bodies concluding that the claims were unsubstantiated.
Akpabio commended the committee for relying on reports from the Nigeria Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the university’s governing council in reaching its decision. He urged lawmakers to base their decisions on verified facts rather than unproven allegations.
Fasina’s confirmation comes days after a coalition of civil society organisations staged a protest at the National Assembly, calling on the Senate to suspend his screening and confirmation.
The protesters cited allegations of sexual harassment, human rights violations, and victimisation, arguing that the nominee also has pending cases before the National Industrial Court in Lagos and Abuja. They urged the Senate to allow the judicial process to run its course before confirming his appointment.
Despite the objections and protests, the Senate adopted the committee’s report and confirmed Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina as a non-career ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The confirmation comes days after civil society groups protested at the National Assembly, citing allegations of sexual harassment, human rights violations and victimisation, and calling for the appointment to be put on hold pending court proceedings. Despite the concerns, the Senate approved Fasina’s nomination.
