BREAKING: Despite protests, Senate confirms ex-FUOYE VC Fasina as non-career ambassador

The Nigerian Senate on Thursday confirmed the outgoing Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti, FUOYE, Professor Abayomi Fasina, as a non-career ambassadorial designate.

This followed the consideration of the report of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, chaired by Senator Sani Bello.

The report was presented by Senator Simon Lalong.

While presenting the report, Lalong said the Senate received and considered the report of the Committee on Foreign Affairs on the confirmation of Fasina for appointment as Non-Career Ambassador/High-Commissioner of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Following the presentation of the report, some senators kicked against Fasiba’s clearance while others were in support, especially Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Abdul Ningi.

A member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, who was number 12 on the list and also signed that Fasina should be confirmed, however, kicked against the clearance.

In its findings, the committee said the allegation against Fasina was investigated by competent authorities including the University Governing Council and the Nigeria Police, which both found it false.

The Senate President, in his remarks, noted that the committee received reports from the police, the Department of State Services, DSS, and the university council. He warned senators to discharge their assignment with respect and not rely on hearsay.

DAILY POST recalls that on July 7, 2026, a coalition of civil society organisations stormed the National Assembly, protesting against the nomination of Professor Fasina.

The protesters called on the Senate not to confirm the nominee over allegations of sexual harassment, human rights violations and victimisation currently before the court.

According to the coalition, its campaign was aimed at promoting accountability, protecting victims of workplace sexual harassment, and preserving Nigeria’s credibility in the international community.

The group said Professor Fasina had pending cases before the National Industrial Court in Lagos and Abuja and argued that the Senate should allow the judicial process to run its course before considering his confirmation.