Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George, have condemned the actions of Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, after a video went viral showing him reviewing a military-like guard of honour in Ogun State. The ceremony involved a group of young men dressed in Nigerian military uniforms, raising serious concerns about the appropriateness and legality of the event.
Atiku Abubakar, in a statement issued by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, expressed outrage at the video, calling it a disturbing and inappropriate display. He described the act as an “aberration,” stating that it was a gross violation of military tradition for any branch of the armed forces to organize a formal parade for an individual who was not officially designated for such an honour. Atiku specifically questioned the legitimacy of the group involved, the “Nigeria Cadet Network,” which he pointed out is not a recognized entity within the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Atiku’s statement read: “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 honours.”
He also raised concerns about the use of firearms by civilians during the parade, especially at a time when illegal arms proliferation is a serious issue in Nigeria. Atiku further stressed that the “Nigeria Cadet Network” was neither a legally registered body nor a recognized part of the military, and he questioned the legitimacy of the firearms displayed by the group.
Atiku emphasized that if any legal violations were committed by Seyi Tinubu or members of the so-called “Nigeria Cadet Network,” Nigerian security agencies must investigate and ensure that justice is served. He noted, “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, and the propriety of the military honours granted to the President’s son by non-commissioned civilians under the protection of security personnel” needed to be thoroughly investigated.
In addition to Atiku, Bode George also strongly criticized the incident, calling it “irresponsible” and “inappropriate.” George, who served as the military governor of Ondo State, pointed out that even during Nigeria’s military regimes, no child of a Head of State ever participated in such a ceremony. He cited the example of former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s son, who, despite being a Brigadier in the Nigerian Army, never took part in any public event where military honours were performed for him.
George advised Seyi Tinubu to distance himself from actions that could harm his reputation or that of his father. He warned that taking part in such events could draw unwanted criticism. “Even when we had Military Heads of State, not one of their children ever dared to take a quarter guard salute,” George remarked, adding that Seyi should avoid being influenced by individuals who may encourage him to engage in actions that could lead to controversy.
In closing, George emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum and respecting boundaries in public life. He urged Seyi to focus on preserving public trust and confidence in Nigeria’s leadership, advising him to avoid any involvement in actions that could spark unnecessary criticism.
Both Atiku Abubakar and Bode George have called for a thorough investigation into the event to determine the legality of the military-like ceremony and ensure that proper procedures are followed in maintaining the integrity of the Nigerian military.
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