Operation Python Dance only against criminals – Military

The military has said Operation Python Dance (Egwu Eke) III was designed to combat criminal activities during elections.
General officer commanding (GOC), 7 Division, Nigeria Army, Brig. Gen. Abdulmalik Biu, said in Maiduguri, Borno State, during the commencement of the operation yesterday, that troops have been charged to root out criminals before, during and after the elections.

“Operation Egwu Eke is to fight crimes, combat insurgency, terrorism and other elements in the state. It is to ensure that Nigerians exercise their franchise,” Biu said at Cashew Plantation, on the city’s outskirts where the operation started.
He said Nigerians deserve security and peace during the election period, even as he urged those planning to cause trouble to shelve the plan.

Biu promised that troops would collaborate with other security agencies for the success of the operation. He said the operation would include military troops, police, civil defence and other security agencies. The first line of the operation would wind up on February 28. He also commended the Borno State government for its support.

Theatre commander, Operation Lafiya Dole, Maj-Gen. Benson Akinroluyo, urged commanders of the operation to maintain cordial relationship existing among participating security agencies in the operation. He said only synergy could ensure the success of the operation.
Operation Python Dance was launched by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai late December in Maiduguri.