Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for a comprehensive investigation into a controversial military-style parade involving Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu. The incident, captured in a viral video, has drawn widespread criticism for allegedly undermining the integrity of Nigeria’s Armed Forces.
In a strongly worded statement on Sunday, Atiku described the parade as a “shameful aberration” and a violation of military traditions. He criticized the event, claiming it showcased the abuse of Nigeria’s revered military structures for personal glorification.
“It is disheartening that Nigerians were subjected to the disturbing sight of a civilian, albeit the President’s son, receiving military honours from a group of young men in military regalia,” Atiku said through his media adviser, Paul Ibe.
The Controversial Parade
The parade, organized by an unregistered group calling itself the “Nigeria Cadet Network,” featured young men in full military attire saluting Seyi Tinubu. The spectacle, widely shared on social media, sparked outrage and raised questions about the misuse of military symbols and the unauthorized use of firearms.
Atiku questioned the legitimacy of the group, stating, “The title ‘Cadet’ is reserved for individuals undergoing formal military training. This so-called network has no legal standing, and its actions are an affront to our military traditions.”
He added that the parade’s apparent use of firearms was a dangerous development, especially in a country grappling with the proliferation of illegal arms. “The brazenness of civilians brandishing weapons in a choreographed military display is both alarming and unacceptable,” Atiku said.
Call for Accountability
Atiku urged Nigerian security agencies to investigate the incident thoroughly, focusing on three critical areas:
- The authenticity and legal status of the “Nigeria Cadet Network.”
- The source of the firearms used during the parade.
- The appropriateness of granting military honours to a civilian, particularly one under the protection of state security.
“The Nigerian Armed Forces are a symbol of national pride and discipline. Allowing such acts to go unchallenged risks eroding the integrity of the military and sends the wrong message about accountability in governance,” Atiku stressed.
He warned that if any legal violations were found, those responsible, including Seyi Tinubu, must face the full weight of the law. “It is the duty of our security agencies to ensure that justice is served,” he said.
Social Media Reaction
The video of the parade has ignited a firestorm on social media. Many Nigerians expressed dismay over the incident, questioning its implications for the military’s reputation and the rule of law. Critics accused the Tinubu administration of fostering an environment where state institutions are exploited for personal gain.
One user tweeted, “What happened to the sanctity of our Armed Forces? This is a disgrace to Nigeria’s military tradition.” Another wrote, “This parade is not just illegal; it’s a slap in the face of every Nigerian soldier who has served this nation with honour.”
A Growing Trend?
The controversy comes at a time when concerns about the politicization of Nigeria’s military are growing. Analysts argue that incidents like these could undermine public trust in the Armed Forces, especially if left unaddressed.
“Allowing civilians to mimic military ceremonies without consequence dilutes the authority and respect commanded by the military,” said analyst Ishola Aluko. “It’s essential for the government to act swiftly to preserve the Armed Forces’ integrity.”
The Tinubu Camp Silent
As of press time, neither Seyi Tinubu nor any representative from the Presidency had responded to Atiku’s statement. The silence has further fueled speculation about the administration’s stance on the issue.
Political observers note that the controversy could have broader implications for the Tinubu administration. “This incident puts the spotlight on governance and accountability. The President must ensure that this matter is addressed transparently to avoid public backlash,” said political commentator Maryam Suleiman.
Atiku’s Broader Concerns
Atiku’s statement also touched on the broader issue of arms proliferation in Nigeria. He highlighted the dangers posed by illegal firearms, calling for a crackdown on their circulation. “At a time when Nigeria is grappling with insecurity, incidents like this set a dangerous precedent,” he said. The former Vice President has been a vocal critic of the Tinubu administration, often raising concerns about governance and the rule of law. This latest call for an investigation is seen by many as part of his ongoing efforts to hold the government accountable
