Atiku faults full military honours accorded Tinubu’s son

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has faulted the recent military parade involving Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu. He also demanded a thorough investigation into the incident, labelling it a gross violation of military tradition.

In a statement released, yesterday, signed by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, the former number two citizen expressed outrage over the event, calling it an aberration for any branch of the Armed Forces 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,” the statement reads.

Atiku further questioned the legitimacy of the military-like outfit involved, stating that the so-called ‘Nigeria Cadet Network’ was not a recognised entity within the Nigerian Armed Forces.

He stressed that the name ‘Cadet’ associated with young, formally trained military personnel, was exploited by civilians to tarnish the esteemed traditions of the military.

“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,” Atiku noted. “What is even more alarming is the brazen use of firearms by civilians in this so-called parade, at a time illegal arms proliferation is at a dangerous high in our country.”

According to the former VP, preserving the integrity of the Nigerian Armed Forces is paramount, adding, “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.”