The Lagos State Government has warned against the rejection of the old Naira notes, warning that those in that habit would face prosecution.
Controversy dogs the Naira swap policy as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) insists on not extending the 10 February deadline for the old N200, N500 and N1,000 despite the order of the Supreme Court to stay action while the suit filed against the policy by some states is on.
In a statement on behalf of the state government, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso said that “it is against the law to reject the old notes as doing so is contrary to the position of the Supreme Court”.
Omotoso said that the governor appealed to the people of the state to remain law-abiding and shun mischief makers “who may exploit this temporary situation to promote their anti-people agenda”, as he is confident that the judiciary would resolve all the issues around the currency shortage crisis.
The statement reads: “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”.
