Babatunji Wusu –
- The DSS replaced President Tinubu’s CSO, Adegboyega Fasasi, with Rasheed Lawal.
- The decision has sparked debates about political motives versus organizational restructuring.
- Supporters argue for professionalism and training within the agency.
- The change follows recent challenges regarding presidential security.
- A reliable DSS source encourages a focus on positive security developments.
The Department of State Services (DSS) has ignited significant debate within political and intelligence circles in Abuja following its decision to replace Adegboyega Fasasi, the Chief Security Officer (CSO) to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The new Director-General of the DSS, Tosin Ajayi, withdrew Fasasi from his position and appointed Rasheed Lawal, a deputy director within the agency, as his successor.
This move has garnered mixed reactions. Supporters view it as part of Ajayi’s initiative to reorganize the DSS, while critics label it a politically motivated action aimed at diminishing Fasasi’s influence within the presidency. Detractors are advocating for the reversal of this redeployment, arguing it is unjust.
Conversely, some sources within the intelligence community defend the decision, stating that Fasasi’s reassignment to a professional training course aligns with the new Director-General’s commitment to restoring professionalism within the agency. Notably, Fasasi had received two promotions in the past year under former DSS Director-General Yusuf Bichi without completing the requisite professional training for his elevated role.
Some observers have drawn parallels to the controversial case of Major Hamza Al-Mustapha during the Sani Abacha regime, suggesting that the current change aims to prevent any officer from operating outside the agency’s oversight.
A reliable source within the DSS, speaking to Vanguard, dismissed claims of political interference, asserting that many within the agency view the decision as a positive step toward enhancing operational effectiveness and securing presidential security. This source also referenced recent concerns, including Senator Ali Ndume’s comments regarding access to the president, as part of the rationale behind the replacement.
Furthermore, the source highlighted the necessity for Fasasi to undergo professional training to facilitate his career advancement within the DSS, characterizing the surrounding controversy as exaggerated. They urged media outlets to concentrate on the constructive developments in national security, particularly the successes in addressing crime and banditry, rather than speculating on personnel changes.
