December 30, (THEWILL) – Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George, have strongly condemned a recent military honour accorded Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu, describing the development as a desecration of highly revered regimented age-long military tradition.
Viral footage of a group of armed individuals in uniform performing a military drill and saluting Seyi had generated public condemnation and criticism, with many Nigerians questioning its legality.
In a statement by his media adviser, Paul Ibe, the former vice president, who expressed outrage over the development, called for a thorough investigation into the incident, which he labelled as a gross violation of military traditions to organise a formal parade for a non-designated public figure.
“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 said.
Atiku further questioned the legitimacy of the military-like outfit involved, stating that the so-called group, the ‘Nigeria Cadet Network’ is not a recognised entity within the Nigerian Armed Forces.
He emphasised the disturbing fact that the name “Cadet”, associated with young, formally trained military personnel, was exploited by civilians to tarnish the esteemed traditions of the military.
Atiku 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 when illegal arms proliferation is at a dangerous high in our country.”
He, therefore, charged relevant security agencies to address 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 Cadet Network; and the propriety of the military honours granted to Seyi by non-commissioned civilians under the protection of security personnel.
Emphasising that preserving the integrity of the Nigerian Armed Forces is paramount, the former vice president 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.”
Meanwhile, Chief Bode George has emphasised the importance of maintaining decorum and respect for boundaries to preserve public trust and confidence in leadership.
Describing the act as irresponsible, Chief George advised Seyi to avoid being drawn into actions that could harm his reputation or that of President Tinubu.
He added that “even when we had Military Heads of State, not one of their children ever dared to take a quarter guard salute.’’
George further cited the example of former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s son, who is a Brigadier in the Nigerian Army, but never represented his father in such a manner.
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