Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has vehemently criticized a recent military parade that involved Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu, describing the event as a serious breach of military protocol.
In a statement issued by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku expressed his outrage, calling for a comprehensive investigation into the incident, which he labeled a blatant violation of military tradition.
“It is with deep dismay that we witnessed a disturbing video circulating online, showcasing a group of young men in armed military formation, unjustly bestowing military honors upon the President’s son,” the statement read.
Atiku raised concerns about the legitimacy of the group associated with the parade, identifying itself as the “Nigeria Cadet Network,” which he noted is not an officially recognized entity within the Nigerian Armed Forces.
He highlighted the troubling misuse of the term “Cadet,” typically reserved for trained military personnel, which civilians have exploited to undermine the esteemed customs of the military.
“To uncover the truth behind this disgraceful display, we have directed our legal team and military specialists to investigate the so-called ‘Nigeria Cadet Network.’
“It quickly became apparent that this group lacks legal registration. Even more alarming is the reckless display of firearms by civilians during this parade, especially in a context where illegal arms proliferation poses a significant threat to our nation,” Atiku stated.
He has called for immediate action from relevant security agencies to address several pressing issues:
1. The legitimacy of the ‘Nigeria Cadet Network’ and its unauthorized use of the title ‘Cadet.’
2. The origin and legality of the firearms exhibited by members of the ‘Nigeria Cadet Network.’
3. The appropriateness of granting military honors to the President’s son by civilians under the protection of security personnel.
Atiku made clear the importance of maintaining the integrity of the Nigerian Armed Forces, asserting that if any legal infractions are found involving the President’s son or members of the dubious ‘Nigeria Cadet Network,’ it is the constitutional responsibility of Nigerian security agencies to ensure that justice is served and those accountable are held responsible.
