Senator Dino Melaye, a prominent African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain from Kogi State, has launched a strong critique of President Bola Tinubu’s decision to serve as chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council for the 2027 election. In a video posted on his official X account on Sunday, Melaye expressed alarm over what he described as an unprecedented and inappropriate arrangement in Nigeria’s political history. He argued that it is the first time anywhere in the world that a presidential candidate would also hold the position of chairman of their own campaign council, calling the move “disgraceful” and a sign of internal party weakness.
Melaye stated that the decision reflects fear and insecurity within the ruling APC, suggesting that the party lacks confidence in its ability to win without the president personally leading the campaign effort. “It shows they are jittery. It shows they are afraid,” he said, emphasizing that such a structure undermines democratic norms and transparency. He further criticized the composition of the campaign council, describing it as “very, very, very bogus” and pointing out alleged duplication of committees and roles, which he believes indicates poor planning and possible attempts to manipulate public perception.
The ADC leader also raised concerns about the appointment of Zacch Adedeji, current chairman of the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS), formerly known as the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), to a fundraising role within Tinubu’s campaign. According to Melaye, Adedeji has been named deputy director in charge of fundraising for the presidential campaign. He questioned whether this creates a serious conflict of interest, given that the NRS chairman is a public officer responsible for collecting national revenue. “Is there no conflict in this? As a lawyer, by the grace of God, on Monday I’m going to court. We have to test that,” Melaye declared, indicating his intention to challenge the appointment legally.
He stressed that public officials must adhere to the Public Service Rules, which prohibit involvement in partisan political activities that could compromise their neutrality. “If that is not conflict of interest, I don’t know what else it would be,” he added. Melaye reiterated his commitment to opposing Tinubu’s re-election bid, declaring that “the battle to stop Tinubu is a battle of no retreat, no surrender.” He called the entire development a “big shame” and a “disgrace,” especially as political parties across Nigeria begin ramping up preparations for the 2027 general elections.
As the nation watches closely, Melaye’s legal challenge and public criticism may influence how Nigerians view the integrity of the upcoming electoral process and the conduct of political leadership.
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