Senate confirms non-career ambassador despite opposition

The Nigerian Senate has confirmed Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina as a non-career ambassador, proceeding with his nomination despite significant opposition from some lawmakers and civil society organizations. The confirmation followed the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs' report, which recommended his appointment.

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That the Senate do receive and consider the report of the Committee on Foreign Affairs on the confirmation of the nomination of Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina for appointment as Non-Career Ambassador/High Commissioner of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Senator Sani Bello chairs the Committee on Foreign Affairs, with Senator Simon Lalong serving as Vice Chairman. Lalong presented the committee's report, urging the Senate to approve Fasina's nomination. However, deliberations revealed divisions within the chamber. Senators expressed reservations, while others, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Abdul Ningi, supported the committee's recommendation.

Concerns were raised by some senators, including committee member Senator Cyril Fasuyi, regarding allegations previously made against the nominee. These allegations reportedly included sexual harassment and human rights violations. A coalition of civil society groups had also protested at the National Assembly, calling for the suspension of his confirmation due to pending court cases related to these accusations.

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The accusation against Professor Fasina was investigated by competent authorities, including the University Governing Council and the Nigeria Police, which both found the allegation false.

Despite these objections, the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs maintained that the allegations against Professor Fasina were investigated by competent authorities, including the Governing Council of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti and the Nigeria Police Force. According to the committee's report, these investigations found the allegations to be false. Senate President Akpabio urged lawmakers to rely on verified reports rather than unverified claims during the confirmation process.

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Honourable senators, we must take our assignments with respect and must not rely on hearsay.