The Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Sani Usman said that operation ‘Python Dance II’ also known as ‘Egwu Eke II’ will continue as scheduled.
“Commanders have been instructed to ensure that all hands are on deck to commence the exercise to its logical completion”.
“Members of the public especially in the areas where the exercise will take place are please enjoined to go about their lawful businesses”.
He stated that Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu in his speech said
“there will be gradual withdrawal of soldiers on the streets of Aba and Umuahia from tomorrow”
Gen. Sani noted that the Governor’s remark should not be misconstrued, as withdrawing of soldiers earmarked for exercise ‘Egwu Eke II’, as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 division has not said such.
“We wish to also state that, we would not allow any individual or group to jeopardise the conduct of the field training exercise through unlawful or criminal activities”
“We hereby reiterate that our troops would conduct themselves in the best professional manner, abide by the Rules of Engagement and Code of Conduct in line with requirements of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Any act of indiscipline by any of our personnel would be decisively dealt with”.
Some online media have earlier credited the Abia State Governor to have said the Nigerian army will withdraw troops from the streets of Abia on Friday.
The video below shows otherwise:
