Nigerians have criticised the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Zacch Adedeji, over his recent comments regarding critics of the economic reforms introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to DAILY POST, Adedeji, in a viral video, challenged critics of the administration’s economic policies, asking what alternative solutions they would have proposed.

“That is what I get worried about when I listen to some people talk about the economy. Just ask them, what would they do differently? Mr President, I don’t want you to wonder. You have elevated the system beyond what they understand,” Adedeji said while addressing President Tinubu.

His remarks have since sparked widespread reactions on X (formerly Twitter), with many Nigerians describing the statement as insensitive and dismissive of the current economic hardship.

Reacting, development professional and former Director-General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, Joe Abah, described the comment as deeply insensitive.

“If true, this is a deeply insensitive statement,” he said.

Responding to Adedeji’s question, Abah referenced policy measures implemented in the United Kingdom by Andy Burnham to address the cost-of-living crisis.

“In just 19 days, he removed the 5 percent VAT on domestic electricity (compared to Nigeria’s 7.5 percent), capped bus fares at £2 per ride by reimbursing private operators, proposed a 20 percent reduction in business rates for pubs and clubs and maintained social support systems for the most vulnerable.

“I would have used the increasing tax revenue to directly tackle the cost of living. That is what I would have done differently,” Abah added.

Similarly, a lawyer identified as Vena Ikem criticised Adedeji, questioning the value of government spending in relation to the taxes collected from citizens.

“He should reflect on what the millions being spent actually mean for ordinary Nigerians who are heavily taxed. This level of arrogance is concerning,” she wrote.

Another X user, Adekunle Oderinde, also took aim at Adedeji, highlighting perceived government extravagance.

“The entire convoy of Zacch Adedeji is reportedly longer and more expensive than that of the UK Prime Minister, yet he is addressing Nigerians who are struggling under current economic policies,” he stated.

The controversy continues to generate debate online, with many Nigerians calling for more empathy and practical solutions from public officials in addressing the nation’s economic challenges.