Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly criticized the military-style honors accorded to Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during an event in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Atiku described the incident as a “gross violation” and a “desecration” of Nigeria’s revered military traditions.
In a statement issued through his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku expressed dismay over a circulating video showing Seyi Tinubu receiving a salute from a quarter guard and inspecting the guard of honor. The event occurred during the first annual youth summit and empowerment program themed “Renewed Hope Agenda: A Concrete Foundation for a Prosperous Nigeria.”
Atiku stated:
“It is with utter dismay and concern that Nigerians were subjected to a nauseating video circulating online, where a group of young men, armed and in full military procession, bestowed upon the President’s son unwarranted military honors.”
The former Vice President questioned the legitimacy of the group involved, known as the “Nigeria Cadet Network,” highlighting that it is not recognized within the Nigerian Armed Forces. He raised concerns over the misuse of military symbolism and firearms, particularly by civilians.
“The name ‘Cadet,’ traditionally associated with young, formally trained military personnel, has been exploited by civilians in this act, tarnishing the esteemed traditions of the Nigerian military,” Atiku remarked.
He revealed that his legal and military experts investigated the “Nigeria Cadet Network” and found it to be an unregistered entity. He called for urgent action to address the legitimacy of the group, the origin of the firearms displayed during the event, and the appropriateness of granting military honors to the President’s son by non-commissioned civilians.
Atiku stressed the need to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s Armed Forces and ensure that those responsible for any legal violations are held accountable.
“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 the law takes its course,” he stated.
The incident has sparked widespread debate, with critics questioning the implications of granting military honors to civilians and its potential impact on Nigeria’s military tradition and public trust in the nation’s institutions.
