The Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Zacch Adedeji, has ignited a fresh online debate after asserting that President Bola Tinubu walks to his office and eats only once a day, directly countering allegations that the President leads an extravagant lifestyle.
Adedeji made these remarks during an interview with Channels Television on Sunday, responding to questions about the lifestyles of political office holders against the backdrop of Nigeria's ongoing economic difficulties. His comments have since sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians weighing in on the President's daily routine and spending habits.
President's Daily Routine: Walking and Working
In the interview, Adedeji defended the President's lifestyle, stating that Tinubu walks from his residence to his office, using a vehicle only when heading to the airport. He further claimed that the President eats just once daily and has not travelled outside Nigeria in the previous three months, emphasizing a routine focused on work rather than leisure.
“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? 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?” he said.
Convoy Controversy: Escalades and Public Perception
The NRS boss was also quizzed about reports concerning the number of Escalades allegedly attached to Tinubu’s convoy. Adedeji questioned the basis of the concern, arguing that the President could afford such vehicles and should not be portrayed as living extravagantly because of their use. His remarks come amid public scrutiny of government spending during a period of economic hardship, with many Nigerians struggling with rising costs of living.
The debate highlights a broader tension between the public's perception of political leaders' lifestyles and the official narrative of frugality. While Adedeji's defense paints a picture of a hardworking President, critics remain skeptical, pointing to the visible trappings of power and the disconnect with the realities faced by ordinary citizens.
Economic Context and Public Reaction
Nigeria has been grappling with significant economic challenges, including inflation, currency devaluation, and fuel subsidy removal, which have exacerbated poverty and unemployment. In this context, any display of wealth by public officials is likely to attract criticism. Adedeji's comments, however, seek to reframe the narrative, suggesting that the President's personal habits are modest and his focus is on governance.
According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics, inflation in Nigeria stood at over 30% in early 2025, with food inflation even higher. Such economic pressures have made the lifestyles of politicians a sensitive topic. Adedeji's interview, therefore, touches on a nerve, prompting discussions about accountability, transparency, and the priorities of the current administration.
Verification and Response
As of the time of reporting, the Presidency has not issued an official statement corroborating or elaborating on Adedeji's claims. The NRS chairman's assertions, however, provide a rare insider perspective on the President's daily life, though they have yet to be independently verified. Political analysts suggest that such defenses are common among officials aiming to project an image of austerity and dedication.
The online reaction has been mixed. Some social media users expressed support for the President, citing his perceived work ethic, while others mocked the claims, pointing to the opulence of state events and the size of the presidential fleet. The debate is likely to continue as Nigeria navigates its economic recovery path.
