The Senate has confirmed 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 committee’s report, Senator Simon Lalong (APC, Plateau South) urged the Senate to approve Fasina’s nomination for appointment as a non-career ambassador/high commissioner.
The report generated debate on the Senate floor, with some lawmakers such as Senator Adams Oshiomhole raising strong objections while others backed the recommendation.
Among those who expressed reservations was Senator Cyril Fasuyi (APC, Ekiti North), who is a member of the foreign affairs committee.
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However, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, as well as Senator Abdul Ningi, supported the committee’s recommendation, arguing that the Senate should rely on the findings of relevant investigative authorities.
According to the committee, allegations made against Fasina had been investigated by the governing council of his university and the police, both of which concluded that the claims were unsubstantiated.
“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,” it said.
In his remarks, Senator Akpabio commended the committee for relying on reports from the Nigeria Police, the DSS and the university’s governing council in reaching its recommendation.
He urged senators to base their decisions on verified facts rather than unsubstantiated allegations.
“Honourable senators, we must take our assignments with respect and must not rely on hearsay,” Akpabio told the lawmakers.
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 and argued that the nominee had pending cases before the National Industrial Court in Lagos and Abuja.
They urged lawmakers to allow the judicial process to run its course before confirming his appointment.
Despite the objections, the Senate adopted the committee’s report and confirmed Fasina’s appointment as a non-career ambassador.
