The Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Zacch Adedeji, has defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against criticism over the alleged lavish lifestyles of political office holders amid Nigeria’s economic challenges.
Adedeji said Tinubu does not live extravagantly despite occupying the highest political office in the country.
The NRS chairman made the remarks during an interview with Channels Television on Sunday, where he was questioned by journalist Seun Okinbaloye about the lifestyles of public officials at a time when many Nigerians are struggling with rising living costs and economic hardship.
Responding to questions about the President’s movements and reports concerning the luxury vehicles attached to his convoy, Adedeji said Tinubu often walks from his residence to his office and only uses a vehicle when travelling to the airport.
He also claimed that the President eats only once a day and had not travelled outside Nigeria in the past three months.
Addressing reports about the number of Escalades allegedly attached to the President’s convoy, Adedeji questioned the basis of the criticism, arguing that Tinubu could afford such vehicles.
“Mr President goes from home to office on foot, not even driving except when he is going to the airport. I don’t know where you see the convoy. Before he became president, what is he riding?” Adedeji said.
“How much is an Escalade that the President of Nigeria cannot afford? Please don’t embarrass this country.
“What is living large? In the last months, he has not even left the shores of this country, trekking and working. If you go there now, you will see him review one document or the other.
“So what is living large? The President eats once in a day. How many parties have you seen him at in the last three years? Tell me where you have seen him, whether on holiday or anywhere?”
His comments come amid growing public debate over government spending and the lifestyles of political leaders, particularly as Nigerians continue to face economic pressures and an increased cost of living.
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