A viral video showing Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, reviewing a guard of honour performed by youths dressed in military-style uniforms in Ogun State has sparked controversy.
Key political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Deputy National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George, have strongly criticized the incident, calling it a serious breach of military traditions.
Atiku Abubakar, in a statement through his media adviser, Paul Ibe, condemned the event, describing it as a “gross violation of military tradition.” He expressed outrage over civilians imitating military protocol and called for an investigation.
“It is with utter dismay and concern that Nigerians were subjected to a nauseating video circulating online,” he remarked, emphasizing the dangers of civilians misusing military attire and firearms.
Atiku also raised questions about the legitimacy of the “Nigeria Cadet Network,” the group involved, which he noted is not officially recognized by the Nigerian Armed Forces.
He said: “In an effort to uncover the truth behind this shameless procession, we instructed our legal team and military experts to investigate the so-called ‘Nigeria Cadet Network.’
“To no one’s surprise, it was revealed that the group is not a legally registered entity. What is even more alarming is the brazen use of firearms by civilians in this so-called parade, at a time illegal arms’ proliferation is at a dangerous high in our country.
“The legitimacy of the ‘Nigeria Cadet Network’ and its use of the title ‘Cadet’ when it is not a registered entity. The origin and legality of the firearms displayed by members of the ‘Nigeria Cadet Network.’
“The propriety of the military honours granted to the President’s son by non-commissioned civilians under the protection of security personnel.”
The former Vice President stressed that preserving the integrity of the Nigerian Armed Forces was paramount.
He said: “If it is determined that any legal violations were committed by the President’s son or members of the so-called ‘Nigeria Cadet Network,’ it is the constitutional duty of Nigerian security agencies to ensure that the law takes its course and those responsible are held accountable.”
Adding his voice, Bode George labeled the event “irresponsible and inappropriate.”
Drawing comparisons to past administrations, George highlighted that even during military regimes, no child of a Head of State ever participated in such activities. He urged Seyi Tinubu to avoid actions that could tarnish his reputation or that of his father.
