The presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu, has appealed to Nigerian youths not to take law into their hands through destructive protests over Naira scarcity.
There were reports of violent protests in some states on Wednesday, especially in Delta, Oyo, Kwara and Edo states, leading to arson and destruction of bank branches in one of the states.
The former Lagos State governor who stated this in a statement assured that this phase will soon pass away as governments at both the federal and state levels are working to surmount the current challenges.
He noted that with the Supreme Court reaffirming its order of 8 February on monetary authorities to allow the old and new Naira notes to circulate together, he believes a solution is right on the way and the scarcity of Naira notes will soon be over.
“I am saddened by reports of violent protests in parts of our country today especially in Delta, Oyo, Kwara and Edo states. In Delta, there were reports of arson and destruction of bank branches.
“I sympathise with all Nigerians who are going through the pains of not being able to get money from banks and ATM points to meet their basic daily needs. I also sympathize with the banks for being victims of the CBN currency redesign policy,” Tinubu said.
“I am happy to note the various measures being put in place by many of our Governors to cushion the effect of the scarcity of Naira on households.
“I want to appeal to our young people not to take law into their hands through destructive protests.
“We feel your pains and frustration but destroying lives and properties will not solve any problem.
“Rather, it will only complicate the crisis we have on our hands.
“We must keep the peace and remain calm.
“Let us not be provoked. Instead, let us cooperate with the government in seeking immediate and lasting solution.
“This difficult time shall soon be over. We must keep hope alive as we move forward to a better, stronger and more prosperous Nigeria of our dream,” he stated.
