There is no plan to launch offensives in Niger Delta communities, the Chief of Army Staff, General Yusuff Buratai, has declared.
He described fears over the likelihood of military actions in the region as unfounded and unnecessary.
Buratai stated this during a courtesy call on the Olu of Warri, His Royal Majesty, Ikenwoli, in his palace on Ajamimogha Road, Warri.
He allayed fears of invasion, saying the special military drill codenamed ‘Operation Crocodile’s Tears’ in Sapele is a routine exercise focused on training for military personnel.
According to the army chief: “The exercise is training routine and not designed to witch hunt anyone.
“To this end, I urge all law abiding citizens to go about their normal daily activities without fears.”
The Olu of Warri said Nigeria remained indissoluble, stressing his subjects and all Deltans believe in one Nigeria.
In the logistics build-up to commencement of the exercise, the military embarked on a free medical outreach for Sapele communities in Delta State.
Medical personnel from the Nigerian Army Medical Corps were deployed to attend to medical needs of community residents free of charge.
