Nigerian Army Rename ‘Operation Python Dance’ To ‘Operation Dance For Peace’

The Nigerian Army has changed the name of its ongoing internal security exercises in the South-East region from Python Dance (Egwu Eke) to Dance For Peace (Atilogwu Udo).

This was made known in a statement issued by the Nigerian Army operations media coordinator, Colonel Aminu Iliyasu,  on Wednesday, October 16, 2019.

The army did not state the reason for changing its operation’s nomenclature, but Iliyasu said the new name would not affect other components of the exercise, which were to tackle “kidnappings, armed robbery, inter-cult and communal clashes in the region.” The statement reads:

“The authorities of the Nigerian Army wish to inform the general public of the change of name of one of its annual training exercises code-named,  “Exercise EGWU EKE” to ‘Exercise Atilogwu Udo.

“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”.

The Nigerian Army launched Exercise Python Dance in the South-East in 2016 to tackle security challenges in the regions.

Meanwhile, US-based media organization, Bloomberg has exposed a retired Nigerian Army general and former minister of defense who is currently worth an estimated $1.2 billion.

According to Bloomberg, the retired Nigerian army general owns not less than 30 properties worldwide some of which include hotels, luxury apartments, and others.