Comrade Olamide Lawal, the Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Youth Development and National President of the APC Youth League, has issued a statement addressing the criticisms surrounding Seyi Tinubu’s recent attendance at a youth summit and empowerment scheme in Ogun State.

The event, organized by the CityBoy Movement under the coordination of Seyi Tinubu, was aimed at empowering young people in the state. Comrade Lawal described the criticisms as “misguided” and clarified several misconceptions surrounding the occasion.

According to him, the paramilitary group that mounted a guard of honour for Seyi Tinubu were not members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, as alleged by critics, but rather members of the Cadet Network-Nigeria, Ogun State Command. This organization is affiliated with the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) and operates similarly to groups like the Boys Scouts and Boys Brigade. “It is a very common practice among such groups to honour personalities and use them as a tool to inspire other young people to aim higher,” Lawal explained, emphasizing that the act should not be politicized or misrepresented.

Comrade Lawal also highlighted the tangible impact of the event, noting that hundreds of young people were empowered through various initiatives. One individual even received a sum of five hundred thousand naira to support their small-scale business. He described the empowerment program as a “landmark event” championed by Kamar Yusuf, who works with the President as his Personal Assistant on Special Duties.

He urged critics to recognize Seyi Tinubu’s genuine commitment to youth empowerment and development rather than attempting to tarnish his image with “baseless insinuations.” Lawal added, “As a society, we should be promoting a culture of empathy, understanding, and constructive criticism, rather than spreading misinformation and negativity.”

In conclusion, Comrade Lawal called on all Nigerians to disregard the negative narrative surrounding Seyi Tinubu’s event and instead support his commendable efforts to empower young people and promote positive change in society.