Former Kogi West lawmaker Dino Melaye has accused President Bola Tinubu of desperation over the appointment of Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), as Deputy Director of Fundraising for his 2027 presidential campaign. Melaye made the claim during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme on Monday, stating that the move constitutes a serious conflict of interest and violates public service ethics.
Melaye emphasized that Adedeji’s position as NRS chairman is a confirmed appointment by the Senate, meaning he is bound by existing laws and regulations governing public office. He argued that it is legally and ethically impossible for someone in such a high-ranking government role to simultaneously serve as a fundraiser for a sitting president’s re-election bid. “Zacch Adedeji cannot be the chairman of the NRS and, at the same time, be a fundraiser for the presidential campaign of a sitting President,” Melaye stated clearly.
The former senator further criticized the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership and President Tinubu for what he described as a reckless disregard for constitutional principles. He called their attitude “ridiculous and unacceptable,” asserting that Nigeria is not a banana republic where such blatant conflicts of interest can be ignored. According to Melaye, the appointment of Adedeji was likely orchestrated from the start to enable access to public funds for political purposes.
He also raised concerns about the inclusion of the Group Managing Director of the NNPC in the campaign fundraising list, calling the entire arrangement “laughable.” Melaye accused the administration of being corrupt and desperate, saying they have turned the country “completely upside down.” He vowed that opposition figures will not allow such actions to go unchallenged.
Melaye revealed that after his public outcry, there were reports that the president had suspended the release of the full fundraising list, claiming some names were missing. He dismissed this as a deceptive tactic, insisting it was a direct response to public pressure and scrutiny. “We know it is because of our outcry,” he said, reinforcing his commitment to holding the government accountable.
The controversy has sparked wider debate about transparency and ethical governance in Nigeria’s political landscape. As the 2027 elections approach, Melaye’s allegations may intensify scrutiny on how public officials are involved in political campaigns. The situation could set the stage for legal challenges and deeper investigations into potential misuse of state resources for electoral gain.
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