Wike: Operation Crocodile Smile Will Make Niger Delta Safer

Ernest Chinwo in Port Harcourt

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has declared his support for military operation in the Niger Delta, codenamed the Operation Crocodile Smile, saying it would bring peace to the region.

He also said he would do everything necessary to ensure peace and security in the Niger Delta.

This is as the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, explained that the operation was introduced to train army personnel on the techniques of operating in the Niger Delta.

Wike spoke on Monday when he granted audience to Buratai and some senior army officers at the Government House, Port Harcourt.

The governor said: “The Rivers State Government is fully in support of the Operation Crocodile Smile. I was fully briefed by the Brigade Commander and we associate ourselves with the programme because it will make the Niger Delta safer.

“One of the advantages of the programme is that hoodlums in the creeks are being uprooted for a safer Niger Delta. I support the programme insofar as it is done with the constitution “.

He also said the state government would sustain its support for security agencies to create the right atmosphere for democratic governance.

The governor disclosed that the State Government had procured six new armoured personnel carriers (APC) for the Police and in the process of concluding the acquisition of 10 gunboats for the Nigerian Navy.

Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, said the Operation Crocodile Smile would ensure that the security challenges in the Niger Delta were addressed and peace enhanced.