Sanwo-Olu Places Security On Red Alert Over Cash Crunch Violence

Amid pockets of protests and violence triggered by hardship arising from the implementation of Naira redesign and cashless policy of the Federal Government, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Saturday placed security agencies on the red alert to forestall breakdown of law and order in the state.

The governor in a state of the nation address held at Lagos House Marina urged residents to resist the opportunists who wished to take advantage of the crisis to foment trouble and cause political conflagration in the state.

Governor Sanwo-Olu who applauded police and other security agencies, operatives that have been working round the clock to maintain the peace, law and order state also appealed to the financial services value chain (POS Agents/Operators); as well as petrol station attendants who have taken the current challenges to extort hard working Lagosians to have a rethink and be their brothers’ and sisters’ keeper by doing everything to lessening the hardship.

The Governor disclosed that the state government is in discussion with private transport operators not to hike fares at this point of time.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said, “This address is necessary in view of the ongoing situation in the country, regarding the change of currency notes and the attendant hardships being faced by ordinary Lagosians.

“This is a heartfelt call to you, as your Governor, to please remain calm at this time, and avoid all forms of violence, arson and rioting. Even in the face of the difficulties and frustrations being faced by all, violence and destruction should not and will never be the answer.

“We have noticed with dismay the rampant incidents surrounding some of the players in the financial services value chain (POS Agents/Operators); as well as petrol station attendants who have taken the current challenges to mean an opportunity to extort hard working and law abiding Lagosians with extortionate service charges on funds withdrawal and sale of PMS.

“Let me appeal to those involved in such behaviour to desist from such sharp practices. It is especially in difficult times like these that we all need to be our brothers’ and sisters’ keeper and do everything we can to contribute to lessening the hardships faced by our fellow Lagosians. This is not the period to sacrifice empathy, compassion, and humanity on the altar of profit making.

“To my good people of Lagos, please resist the opportunists who seek to take advantage of the anger and frustration that you all are feeling to hijack the situation and foment trouble.’’