Controversy Trails DSS DG’s Removal Of Tinubu’s Top Bodyguard

The Department of State Services (DSS) has sparked intense discussions within political and intelligence circles in Abuja following its decision to replace the Chief Security Officer (CSO) to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Adegboyega Fasasi.

Naija News reports that the new DSS Director-General, Tosin Ajayi, recently withdrew Fasasi and appointed Rasheed Lawal, a deputy director in the service, as his replacement.

While some view the move as part of Ajayi’s ongoing efforts to reorganize the DSS, others have criticized it as a targeted move against Fasasi.

Critics argue that the decision to remove Fasasi is politically motivated, aiming to undermine his influence and power within the presidency. These individuals are reportedly pushing to reverse the redeployment, seeing it as an unjust action.

However, other sources within the intelligence community defend the decision, emphasizing that Fasasi was sent to attend a professional course as part of the new DG’s plan to restore professionalism in the service.

Fasasi had been promoted twice within the last year under the former DSS Director-General, Yusuf Bichi, without completing the necessary professional training required for his new role.

Some sources have drawn comparisons to the infamous case of Major Hamza Al-Mustapha during the Sani Abacha regime, suggesting that this move was intended to prevent any officer from operating independently of the service’s oversight.

Speaking to Vanguard, a reliable source within the DSS dismissed claims of political interference, explaining that the move is being welcomed by many as a step toward enhancing the service’s effectiveness and ensuring the presidency’s security operations run smoothly.

The source pointed to recent challenges, such as Senator Ali Ndume’s remarks about access to the president, as part of the reasoning behind the replacement.

Additionally, the source emphasized the importance of Fasasi receiving professional training to support his career progression within the DSS, dismissing the controversy as overblown.

They urged the media to focus on the positive developments in national security efforts, particularly the successes in combating crime and banditry, rather than speculating on personnel decisions.