Dino Melaye, a former senator and prominent member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kogi State, has announced plans to take legal action against Zacch Adedeji, the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, over his appointment to the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council for the 2027 election. Melaye's announcement comes amid growing criticism of President Bola Tinubu's decision to chair the campaign council while also being the party's presidential candidate.

In a video shared on his official X account, Melaye expressed his disapproval of the arrangement, labeling it as unprecedented and disgraceful. He stated, "This is the first time in the history of the universe and the entire world that a presidential candidate of a political party will double as the chairman of the presidential campaign council for his own election." He argued that this dual role reflects a lack of confidence within the ruling party, suggesting that it indicates Tinubu's insecurities regarding support from party governors and ministers.

Melaye did not hold back in his criticism of the campaign council's structure, describing it as "very, very, very bogus" and alleging that it suffers from duplication of committees and positions. He specifically pointed to Adedeji’s appointment as Deputy Director of Fundraising in the campaign council, questioning the potential for a conflict of interest given Adedeji's responsibilities as head of the revenue service. He stated, "The chairman of FIRS is the deputy director in charge of fundraising of presidential campaign of Tinubu. Is there no conflict in this?"

The former senator plans to challenge Adedeji's role in court, asserting that public officials should adhere to the Public Service Rules. He emphasized the need to test the legality of Adedeji's involvement, saying, "If that is not conflict of interest, I don’t know what else it would be."

Melaye's commitment to opposing Tinubu's re-election bid is unwavering, as he declared, "The battle to stop Tinubu is a battle of no retreat, no surrender." He characterized the current political situation as a significant low point in Nigeria's history, calling it a "big shame" and "a disgrace."

The APC had recently released the list of members for its 2027 Presidential Campaign Council, with Tinubu at the helm. Vice President Kashim Shettima was named Vice Chairman I, while the party's National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, serves as Vice Chairman II. Other notable appointments include Abdulaziz Yari as Director-General and Hope Uzodimma as Secretary. Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun was also named Director of Fundraising, alongside Adedeji's controversial appointment.

As the political landscape heats up ahead of the 2027 elections, Melaye's legal challenge could have significant implications for the APC and its campaign strategies.