Alleged sexual misconduct
The investigation by the House of Representatives joint committee on ethics and privileges and foreign affairs into the alleged sexual misconduct by three lawmakers, Samuel Ikon, Mohammed Gololo, and Mark Gbillah, in the US in April this year, was today stalled as the immediate past US Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle, or any official from the US Embassy failed to honor the panel’s invitation.
Also absent at the public hearing was the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, who was also invited. He had, however, written earlier to the committee members, informing them he was attending an African Union Summit in Kigali, Rwanda, and that he would not be back until July 19th. The panel postponed the meeting until Wednesday, July 20th.
The panel had summoned the US Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle, to appear before it so he could give concrete evidence to the alleged acts of sexual misconduct he accused the three lawmakers of committing while they were on an official assignment in Cleveland, USA, in April. However, as the rescheduled date approached, rumors began to circulate that Ambassador Entwistle had requested a further extension due to unforeseen circumstances. Speculation grew rampant, with some suggesting that the ambassador was deliberately stalling the proceedings to protect the reputations of the accused lawmakers.
The media seized upon the controversy, fueling public outrage and demanding transparency in the investigation. With tensions mounting, the committee faced mounting pressure to ensure a fair and thorough inquiry into the allegations. As the public outcry intensified, the committee members found themselves caught in a political storm. They were acutely aware of the weight of their responsibility and the need to uphold the principles of justice and accountability. The pressure to deliver a comprehensive investigation became even more pressing as the public’s trust in the political system wavered. The committee knew that any misstep or delay could further erode that trust and deepen the already existing divisions within the nation.
