The Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Zacch Adedeji, has defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against criticism over the alleged lavish lifestyle of political office holders, insisting that the President does not live extravagantly despite occupying Nigeria’s highest political office.
Adedeji made the comments during an interview on Sunday with journalist Seun Okinbaloye, where he was questioned about the lifestyle of political leaders at a time millions of Nigerians continue to face economic hardship and rising living costs.
The conversation centred on public concerns about government spending, official convoys and the personal lifestyles of those occupying political offices.
Responding to questions about President Tinubu’s movements and the reported number of luxury vehicles attached to his convoy, Adedeji dismissed the suggestion that the President lives an extravagant lifestyle.
‘Tinubu Walks From Home to Office’
Adedeji claimed that Tinubu regularly walks from his residence to his office and only uses a vehicle when travelling to the airport.
“Mr President goes from home to office on foot, not even driving except when he is going to the airport,” he said.
The NRS chairman questioned where the reports of an extravagant presidential lifestyle were coming from, challenging critics to provide evidence of excessive spending by the President.
He also questioned why the President should be criticised over the use of luxury vehicles, arguing that such vehicles are affordable for someone occupying the office of President.
“How much is an Escalade that the president of Nigeria cannot afford?” Adedeji asked.
“Please don’t embarrass this country.”
‘He Eats Once a Day’
Adedeji also made claims about the President’s personal routine, saying Tinubu eats only once a day.
He argued that the President’s demanding schedule and focus on official duties did not support the perception that he spends his time enjoying a lavish lifestyle.
“The president eats once in a day. How many parties have you seen him at in the last three years?” he asked.
The NRS boss further challenged critics to identify occasions when Tinubu had been seen holidaying or attending lavish social events.
“Tell me where you have seen him, whether on holiday or anywhere?” he added.
Adedeji Defends Tinubu’s Work Schedule
According to Adedeji, the President has remained focused on official responsibilities, including reviewing government documents and attending to matters of state.
He claimed that Tinubu had not travelled outside Nigeria in the previous three months, presenting this as further evidence against the perception that the President maintains an extravagant lifestyle.
“If you go there now, you will see him review one document or the other,” Adedeji said.
Public Debate Over Political Lifestyles
The comments come amid an ongoing national debate over the lifestyle of political office holders and the cost of governance.
Nigerians have continued to question government spending at a time when households and businesses are dealing with inflation, high living costs and other economic pressures.
The size of official convoys, luxury government vehicles, foreign trips and other expenses associated with political office holders have remained subjects of public discussion.
Adedeji’s defence therefore comes as part of the wider debate over whether the lifestyle of public officials is consistent with the economic realities confronting ordinary Nigerians.
While the NRS chairman insisted that Tinubu does not live extravagantly, his comments are likely to generate further discussion about the President’s personal lifestyle, the cost of presidential security and logistics, and the broader issue of public expenditure.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The National Concord Blog Newsletter for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now below!
