The Senate has confirmed Professor Abayomi Fasina as a non-career ambassador of Nigeria despite objections from some lawmakers and civil society groups over allegations raised against his nomination.
The confirmation followed the adoption of the report of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, chaired by Senator Sani Bello.
Presenting the committee’s recommendations, Senator Simon Lalong urged lawmakers to approve Fasina’s appointment as ambassador/high commissioner, saying investigations had cleared him of the allegations levelled against him.
The Senate committee stated that claims made against Fasina were investigated by relevant authorities, including the governing council of his university and the Nigeria Police.
According to the report, the investigations found the allegations unsubstantiated, paving the way for the recommendation of his appointment.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio backed the committee’s position, urging lawmakers to rely on verified findings rather than claims that had not been proven.
He said the Senate’s decisions should be guided by facts and official reports from competent institutions.
The confirmation process was not without controversy, as some senators raised concerns over the nomination.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole and Senator Cyril Fasuyi expressed reservations during debates on the floor, questioning aspects of the recommendation.
However, other lawmakers, including Senator Abdul Ningi, supported the committee’s report and argued that the Senate should consider the outcome of investigations already conducted.
The confirmation came shortly after a coalition of civil society organisations protested at the National Assembly, calling for the suspension of Fasina’s screening and approval.
The groups alleged issues including sexual harassment, human rights violations and victimisation, while also pointing to cases they said were pending before the National Industrial Court.
They urged the Senate to allow judicial processes to be concluded before approving the appointment.
Despite the objections, the Senate adopted the foreign affairs committee’s report and confirmed Fasina as a non-career ambassador.
The decision cleared the way for his appointment as part of Nigeria’s diplomatic representation abroad.
