APC Campaign Council Faces Criticism as Melaye Threatens Legal Action
Controversy has continued over the All Progressives Congress, APC, Presidential Campaign Council for the 2027 election, with former Kogi West Senator Dino Melaye threatening to challenge some of the appointments in court. The APC recently unveiled a 108-member council for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign. Tinubu was named Chairman, while Vice President Kashim Shettima and APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda became Vice Chairmen I and II. Former Zamfara Governor Abdulaziz Yari was appointed Director-General, while Imo Governor Hope Uzodimma became Secretary. Ogun Governor Dapo Abiodun was named Director of Fundraising, with Nigeria Revenue Service Chairman Zacch Adedeji as Deputy Director of Fundraising. Budget Office Director-General Taminu Yakubu was appointed Treasurer. The appointments have drawn criticism, particularly over the involvement of serving public officials in partisan political activities. Melaye, in a video shared on his official X account, questioned Adedeji’s appointment, arguing that his role as head of the nation’s revenue service could create a conflict of interest. He questioned whether a public official responsible for managing government revenue should simultaneously hold a senior position in a presidential campaign council. Melaye said he would approach the court to test the legality of the appointment, citing concerns over public service rules, ethics and possible conflicts of interest. “As a lawyer, by the grace of God, on Monday, I’m going to court. We have to test that,” he said.
He also criticised the decision to make Tinubu chairman of his own campaign council, describing the arrangement as unusual and “disgraceful.” Melaye further questioned the size of the council. Meanwhile, Musa Rabiu Kwankwaso, vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, also criticised the inclusion of Adedeji and Yakubu. Kwankwaso said their participation could weaken public confidence in institutions responsible for managing Nigeria’s finances and revenue. He questioned whether senior government officials could effectively combine their official duties with prominent partisan campaign roles. He also urged Yari to reconsider leading the council, citing economic hardship, insecurity and unemployment across the country. Kwankwaso called on Nigerians to demand accountable and people-oriented governance as preparations for the 2027 general election intensify.
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