Despite being redeployed by the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Tosin Ajayi, Adegboyega Fasasi, the Chief Security Officer (CSO) to President Bola Tinubu, has refused to leave Aso Rock Villa. Sources within the Presidency informed Sahara Reporters that Fasasi has garnered support from several state governors and influential figures, who have allegedly provided him with funds to maintain access to the president.
Some officials within the Villa have accused Fasasi of soliciting bribes to control who gets to meet Tinubu. “There’s significant pressure from governors and influential individuals who have financially backed his stay, insisting he must remain,” a source disclosed.
Fasasi’s retention has sparked controversy, as critics claim he has a history of using financial incentives to manage access to the president. “The logic from his supporters is puzzling; they argue that if he leaves, they’ll need to bribe a new appointee for access,” the source added.
Following his redeployment, Fasasi was succeeded by Rasheed Atanda Lawal, a deputy director of the SSS, who is currently on a fellowship course. Reports indicate that Tinubu approved Fasasi’s removal upon the DSS DG’s recommendation, citing the need for him to undergo a “strategic course,” a common rationale for such changes in security personnel.
This situation echoes past instances, such as the redeployment of Bashir Abubakar as CSO under former President Muhammadu Buhari, also justified by the need for further training.
As the DSS continues to undergo changes, its spokesperson, Dr. Peter Afunanya, recently explained the service’s new media policy, which aims for reduced visibility in public and media interactions, signaling a return to a more secretive approach.
