Why Tinubu Removes Fasasi as Chief Security Officer, Appoints Lawal
In a strategic move, President Bola Tinubu has approved the removal of Mr. Fasasi as Chief Security Officer (CSO) and appointed Mr. Lawal as his replacement. This decision follows a request from the Director-General (DG) of the State Security Service (SSS) to send Fasasi for a "strategic course," a common rationale for the reassignment of senior security officials in the president's circle.
Promotion and Favoritism Allegations
According to sources familiar with the internal workings of the service, Mr. Lawal was due for promotion to the rank of Director since July 2023. However, his promotion was reportedly delayed by the previous leadership due to personal disagreements.
“He is one of the Deputy Directors who should have been promoted to Director in July 2023,” a source noted. “But his promotion was held back, while the vacancies were filled by junior officers like Koko, Milad, and Fasasi, due to favoritism."
Fasasi’s Alleged High-Handedness
Insiders suggest that Mr. Fasasi’s removal may be linked to his leadership style, which allegedly displeased several influential figures around the president. His perceived high-handedness is said to have caused friction within the security circle, prompting concerns even from the president himself.
"Fasasi has stepped on many toes, and even the president was reportedly dissatisfied with how he managed his office," an insider disclosed.
Tradition of Appointing a New CSO with a New DG
It is a well-established tradition within the SSS that when a new DG is appointed, a new CSO is often chosen to ensure smooth cooperation between the two leaders. This pattern was observed once again with the appointment of the new DG.
“It has become customary for a new DG to replace the CSO with someone they trust and are comfortable working with,” an insider explained. “The CSO's role is highly strategic, and the DG needs someone who can be relied upon at such a critical position."
Historical Precedent
This practice of replacing key security personnel is not new. For example, in March 2019, then-President Muhammadu Buhari approved the redeployment of his CSO, Bashir Abubakar, and appointed Idris Ahmed as his successor. At that time, DG Yusuf Bichi convinced President Buhari that Mr. Abubakar was due for a “strategic course” in Buenos Aires, Argentina, a move that paved the way for Ahmed's appointment.
Conclusion
The removal of Mr. Fasasi and the appointment of Mr. Lawal as the new CSO reflects a broader pattern within the presidency, where changes in security leadership often accompany shifts in the top echelon of the SSS. These decisions are influenced by strategic needs, trust, and internal dynamics, underscoring the sensitive nature of security appointments within Nigeria’s political framework
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