The Nigerian Army has renamed its annual military exercise in the South-East region popularly known as Ekwu Eke.
The annual exercise which began in 2016 and translated as Python Dance was started in the Igbo predominantly area to douse succession tension in the geo-political zone.
The secessionist group, now proscribed after confronting the military, is demanding an independent state of Biafra Republic.
Announcing the name change is Col Aminu Iliyasu, the Nigerian Army Operations Media Coordinator, who said the exercise will henceforth be known as Atilogwu Udo translated as Dance of Peace.
Mr Iliyasu, in a press release, said the name name will not affect other military components meant to combat kidnappings, armed robbery, inter-cult and communal clashes in the region.
“The authorities of the Nigerian Army have changed the name of one of its annual training exercises code-named, “Exercise Egwu Eke” to “Exercise Atilogwu Udo,” the statement reads.
“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 relative to the exercise remains unchanged.
“The Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Tukur Buratai, reiterates the commitment of the Nigerian Army in protecting lives and properties of citizens particularly during these ember months and the fast-approaching Yuletide season,” it added.
