The Department of State Services commenced the security screening of president Muhammadu Buhari’s ministerial nominees on Wednesday.
The Punch newspaper is reporting that already at least 20 nominees had been screened by the DSS operatives.
According to the report, Buhari had sent 36 names of probable ministers for the security checks.
On Monday during a state visit to Accra, Buhari told journalists that he would keep his promise of naming ministers this month.
The Punch said it gathered that most of those on the list had worked with Buhari during his stint as a military Head of State and the chairman of the defunct Petroleum Trust Fund.
Special Adviser (Media) to the President, Femi Adesina, simply replied via a text message, “Security screening is naturally a behind-the-scenes matter, thanks,” when asked about the those being screened.
“The truth is that the President is someone who believes in due process,” said an APC leader who asked not to be mentioned.
“His choice of Daura (Lawal Daura), a member of the old guard, as the DG DSS should tell you something; even those contacted for screening know that any leak of information traced to them could ruin their chances,” the source added.
