If you live in Lagos State and have been turning down transactions that are coming with old Naira notes as means of payment, it is time to retrace your step.
The state government is watching you and will go all out to make sure that you comply with its new order.
The Governor of Nigeria’s commercial nerve, Babajibe Sanwo-Olu, says those rejecting old naira notes in Lagos will be prosecuted.
According to the governor, pending the Supreme Court’s final hearing on February 22, the old notes are still legal tender.
Recent happenings have left many persons in Lagos disturbed.
Traders, commercial transport operators and others stopped accepting the old naira notes on Tuesday.
However, the new naira notes are not in circulation, leaving many stranded.
As protests rage in some states of the federation, the Lagos state government has assured residents that the old naira notes would still be in use.
Contrary To Supreme Court’s Position
In a statement, the Commissioner of Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, promised punishment for those refusing the old notes.
“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,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also urges Lagosians to “shun mischief makers who may exploit this temporary situation to promote their anti-people agenda”.
Lagos Eases Burden Of Naira Scarcity
Furthermore, in a bid to ease the burden of the hardships caused by the naira scarcity, the Lagos state government has put certain measures in place.
The state commenced the distribution of food packs for the vulnerable as promised by the Governor.
Implementation of 50% fare slashes on all state transportation facilities also continues.
The government is also looking into other ways to ease the effects on Lagosians.