Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has denounced the recent military-style parade involving Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, calling it a gross breach of military protocols.
In a statement issued by his media office and signed by his media adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku described the event as “nauseating” and a deviation from the norms of the Nigerian Armed Forces. He emphasized that no branch of the military should organize a formal parade for an individual who is not a designated public figure.
“It is with utter dismay and concern that Nigerians were subjected to a video showing armed young men in full military procession bestowing unwarranted honours on the President’s son,” the statement read.
Atiku questioned the legitimacy of the group involved, identified as the “Nigeria Cadet Network,” noting that it is not recognized as part of the Nigerian Armed Forces. He expressed alarm at the misuse of the term “Cadet,” typically reserved for formally trained military personnel, by civilians who allegedly tarnished the military’s traditions.
“Our investigation, led by legal and military experts, revealed that the so-called ‘Nigeria Cadet Network’ is not a legally registered entity,” Atiku stated. “The display of firearms by civilians in this parade is even more alarming, given the current crisis of illegal arms proliferation in the country.”
The former Vice President has urged an urgent investigation by relevant security agencies, highlighting key concerns:
- The legitimacy of the “Nigeria Cadet Network” and its misuse of the term “Cadet.”
- The origin and legality of the firearms displayed during the parade.
- The appropriateness of granting military honours to a civilian under such questionable circumstances.
Atiku stressed the need to protect the integrity of the Nigerian Armed Forces. He called on security agencies to ensure that any legal violations involving Seyi Tinubu or members of the “Nigeria Cadet Network” are addressed and that those responsible are held accountable.
“The sanctity of our military traditions must be preserved, and any actions that undermine this institution must not go unchecked,” he concluded.