Tinubu under pressure to retain CSO amid redeployment

President Bola Tinubu is reportedly under increasing pressure to retain Adegboyega Fasasi, his Chief Security Officer (CSO), after recent redeployment.

According to reports, Fasasi, a director at the Department of State Services (DSS), was withdrawn by the agency’s new Director-General, Tosin Ajayi, and replaced by Rasheed Lawal, a deputy director in the DSS.

The redeployment is reportedly due to Fasasi’s need to undergo routine professional training, which is a standard requirement to enhance the skills of officers. Fasasi has been promoted twice in the past year, prompting the DSS leadership to recommend his participation in the necessary training.

Since the announcement of Fasasi’s redeployment, there has been a strong lobbying effort to urge President Tinubu to reverse the decision made by the DSS Director-General.

Insiders report that influential figures, including ministers, National Assembly members, and senior politicians, are advocating for Fasasi to stay in his current role.

Many of these individuals view Fasasi as pivotal to maintaining their access to the president.

Some lobbyists have reportedly framed Fasasi’s redeployment as a form of witchhunt or an attempt to diminish his standing within the security hierarchy.

According to Daily Sun, a high-ranking minister within Tinubu’s inner circle is said to be leading the charge to keep Fasasi in office, expressing confidence that the president will overrule the DSS DG’s decision.

The minister has reportedly assured Fasasi and others that his influence will safeguard them from the ongoing cabinet restructuring.

However, those in support of Fasasi’s redeployment argue that such moves are a routine part of DSS operations, intended to promote versatility, discipline, and professional growth.

They highlight that training is essential for maintaining efficiency and professionalism within the service.

Despite the pressure, sources suggest that President Tinubu may be considering allowing Fasasi to remain in his role until January 2025, at which point he would leave for a postgraduate course.

Until then, it is believed Fasasi will continue in his current position, possibly as part of a transition period.

As of yesterday, Fasasi was still reported to be at his post, continuing his duties as the president’s Chief Security Officer.