‘Tinubu Under Pressure To Retain Top Bodyguard Amid Redeployment’

President Bola Tinubu is reportedly facing mounting pressure to retain Adegboyega Fasasi, his Chief Security Officer (CSO), following his recent redeployment.

Naija News reports that Fasasi, a director with the Department of State Services (DSS), was withdrawn by the agency’s new Director-General, Tosin Ajayi, and replaced by Rasheed Lawal, a deputy director in the DSS.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 said to be linked to Fasasi’s need to undergo routine professional training, a standard requirement for officers to enhance their skills. In the past year, Fasasi received two promotions, prompting the DSS leadership to recommend his participation in the necessary professional training.

However, since the announcement of Fasasi’s redeployment, intense lobbying efforts have emerged, urging President Tinubu to reverse the DSS DG’s decision.

According to insiders, key figures—including ministers, members of the National Assembly, and senior politicians—are pushing for Fasasi to remain in his position.

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.