Atiku Calls for Investigation Into Military-Style Parade Honoring Tinubu’s Son, Seyi

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar demands a probe into the viral video showing a military-style parade in honor of Seyi Tinubu, raising concerns over protocol and governance.

Atiku Abubakar, the former Vice President, has urged for a thorough investigation into a viral video depicting armed individuals in uniform conducting a military-style drill to honor Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu.

The video, which has ignited extensive criticism and discussion, prompted Atiku to characterize the event as a violation of military protocol.

In a statement released on Sunday by his media adviser, Paul Ibe, the former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) voiced his concern about the event and its implications.

“The statement expressed deep dismay and concern over a disturbing video circulating online, in which a group of young men, equipped with weapons and marching in full military fashion, unjustly awarded military honors to the President’s son.”

Atiku highlighted that the “Nigeria Cadet Network,” the group in question, is not acknowledged by the Nigerian Armed Forces, casting doubt on its legitimacy.

He pointed out that the term “Cadet,” usually designated for formally trained military personnel, seemed to have been improperly used by civilians in this instance.

To uncover the truth behind this blatant charade, we directed our legal team and military experts to investigate the entity known as the ‘Nigeria Cadet Network.’

“It’s not surprising to anyone that the group is not a legally registered entity,” Atiku observed.

The former Vice President also expressed concerns about the group’s apparent use of firearms, highlighting the dangers associated with illegal arms proliferation in the country.

Atiku urged relevant security agencies to promptly investigate several crucial matters, such as the legality of the “Nigeria Cadet Network,” the origin of the displayed firearms, and whether it is appropriate to bestow military honors on a non-official figure.

He stated, “Should it be established that any legal violations were committed by the President’s son or members of the ‘Nigeria Cadet Network,’ Nigerian security agencies have a constitutional duty to ensure that justice is served and those responsible are held accountable.”

At the same time, individuals close to the Tinubu family have minimized the controversy, stating that a voluntary youth group organized the event as a gesture of solidarity rather than an official military endorsement.

An event organizer, who wished to remain anonymous, stated that the parade was a gesture of honor by a youth-focused civic group rather than the military. They mentioned that Seyi Tinubu has been an inspirational figure for numerous young people, and this parade served as their way of expressing gratitude.

The Nigerian military has not yet provided an official response, leaving questions about the event’s legality and broader implications unanswered.