The Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Zacch Adedeji, has sparked debate after defending President Bola Tinubu against claims that he lives an extravagant lifestyle.
Adedeji made the remarks during an interview with Channels Television on Sunday while responding to questions about the lifestyles of political office holders amid the economic challenges facing Nigerians.
The NRS chairman claimed that Tinubu walks from his residence to his office and only uses a vehicle when travelling to the airport.
He also said the President eats only once a day and had not travelled outside Nigeria in the preceding three months.
Adedeji was further questioned about reports concerning the number of Escalade vehicles allegedly attached to the President’s convoy.
Defending the use of the vehicles, he questioned why their presence should be interpreted as evidence that the President is living extravagantly, arguing that the President 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.”
Adedeji also pointed to Tinubu’s work schedule and limited public appearances as evidence against claims of an extravagant lifestyle.
“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?” he said.
His comments have since generated reactions online, with Nigerians debating his description of the President’s lifestyle against concerns over government spending and the economic difficulties confronting citizens.