Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has warned against the rejection of old naira notes in the state as he acknowledged the patience and calmness exhibited by Lagosians following the controversy that trailed the Naira Redesign policy.
The Governor, in a press statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotosho, and made available to Theliberationnews explained that the state has joined the suit against the initial deadline set by the Central Bank of Nigeria for the exchange of the old note for new ones.
This was as he emphasized that the February 8 interim judgement of the apex court directing the federal government to suspend the enforcement of the February 15 deadline remains unchanged.
He went on to warn business owners and individuals against rejecting the old 200, 500 and 1000 naira notes as he explained that such is tantamount to contempt which attracts prosecution.
“The Lagos State Government wishes to put on record the patience and calmness of Lagosians following the controversy generated by the Naira shortage crisis.
“The State Government has joined the dispute at the Supreme Court, which today adjourned the hearing of the matter till February 22. When the matter first came up on February 8, the apex court said the old notes remained legal tender.
”That position has not changed. The State Government hereby warns those rejecting the old notes to desist from doing so or face prosecution. It is against the law to reject the old notes as doing so is contrary to the position of the Supreme Court.
“Governor Sanwo-Olu urges Lagosians to remain law-abiding and shun mischief makers who may exploit this temporary situation to promote their anti-people agenda. He is confident that the Judiciary will resolve all the issues around the currency shortage crisis.
“To cushion the effect of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) directive on the old notes, especially on the vulnerable among us, Lagos State has started the distribution of the food packs promised by the Governor. The 50% fares slash on all State transportation facilities continues, as directed by Mr. Governor,” the statement read.
