Recent developments have clarified the reasons behind the abrupt dismissal of Yusuf Bichi as Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS). Sources tell Guardian that President Bola Tinubu’s decision is part of a broader strategy to enhance the fight against terrorism and kidnapping in Nigeria.
According to insiders, Bichi’s removal was linked to his perceived interference with the National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu’s efforts to combat terrorism. Ribadu reportedly felt that Bichi was obstructing his coordination of the President’s anti-terrorism directives.
One source mentioned, “Ribadu believes Bichi was hindering his efforts to implement the President’s orders aimed at eliminating terrorists and kidnappers from the country.”
In a series of notable security appointments on Tuesday, President Tinubu named Mohammed Mohammed as the new Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA). Additionally, Adeola Ajayi has been appointed as the new Director-General of the DSS, taking over from Bichi.
Tinubu announced these changes through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale. Adeola Ajayi, the incoming DSS Director-General, has had a distinguished career within the service, having served as Assistant Director-General and held key positions as State Director in Bauchi, Enugu, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Kogi.
