Buhari: Presidency Beef Up Security As Ministerial Nominees Screening Begins

Security agencies have commenced the screening of ministerial nominees from states as President Muhammadu Buhari constitutes his cabinet.

Naija News understands that preliminary background checks on some of the nominees are ongoing.

Also, the Presidency has beefed up security around President Buhari’s nephew, Mamman Daura and Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari, following protests over the cabinet.

The presidency is said to be bothered about personal attacks on Daura and Kyari.

It was gathered that the presidency was bitter that the jostle for ministerial tickets has become “personal assault,” despite Buhari keeping the list of potential nominees to himself.

A President source told The Nation that: “The Presidency has directed that security be strengthened for Daura, Kyari and other close associates of the President, who are being targeted.

“The challenge most lobbyists are having is that the President is keeping the list of his incoming cabinet to himself. Not even APC leaders or governors have access to the list.

“Some may have dropped names but the President is always keeping quiet. It is difficult to read his mindset. So, attacking Daura and Kyari was unfortunate. They do not have any role to play in compiling the list of those who will be members of the Federal Executive Council.”

Another source disclosed that the final consideration of likely ministerial nominees is being done by the President, as it was not clear if Buhari will go with 36 ministers of 42.

The source said: “The list in most states comprises three nominees, but the President has adopted a broader perspective in considering the nominees, including some former ministers.

“Preliminary background checks on some of the nominees are ongoing.

“But before the President sends the list to the National Assembly in July, the checks would have been concluded and the best chosen for cabinet appointments.”