Ita Ekpeyong, director-general of the department of states service (DSS), has resigned.

A source disclosed Ekpeyong submitted his resignation letter around 10am, and one M. M. Daura from Katsina state is being tipped to succeed him.

Former president Goodluck Jonathan appointed him in 2010 after dismissing Afakriya Gadzama.

The government of President Muhammadu Buhari is reported to be unimpressed by the organisation’s conduct in the buildup to the March 28 presidential election.

Before Buhari moved into Aso Rock, there were reports in the media that DSS officials would be barred from the presidential villa.

However, shortly after the president moved into his official residence, security personnel from the organisation were affected in what the presidency described as “reorganisation at the presidential villa”.

“Rumours that personnel of the State Security Service have been expelled from the presidential villa are unfounded,” said Femi Adesina, presidential spokesman, in a statement.

“President Muhammadu Buhari has given no such order. While it is true that a reorganisation of security at the presidential villa, which involves the realignment of personnel from various services is underway, the exercise does not translate to the expulsion of DSS personnel from the premises in any way.”