The Nigerian Army has on wednesday, said it has renamed the Operation Python Dance in southeast to Operation Dance For Peace.
Recall that Operation python dance was launched in 2018 following tension in the South East over activities of now proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB.
However, The Nigerian army spokesperson Col. Aminu Iliyasu who made this revelation did not make known the reason for the sudden change in the operation tag name.
“The annual training exercise commenced in 2016 and has consistently recorded remarkable successes since its introduction.
“The Exercise, which covers the South East region of the country, is designed to combat criminal activities including kidnappings, armed robbery, inter-cult and communal clashes among other sundry crimes.
“All other information relatives to the Exercise as contained in the previous Press Statement and Press Conference issued by the Army Headquarters remain unchanged”.
“The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai wishes to reiterate the commitment of the Nigerian Army in protecting lives and properties of citizens particularly during these ember months and the fast-approaching Yuletide season.
“He also wishes to further solicit the support and understanding of all well-meaning Nigerians towards providing a well-secured environment for all and sundry”.
Meanwhile, the rebranded operation which is scheduled to begin from November 1, has gotten much criticism from southeastern citizens who described the action as a misplace priority, and tasking the service to redirect its mission to the North East and North West geopolitical zones where there is high rate of insurgency.