LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Youths in Sagamu, Ogun State have taken to the streets to protest their inability to withdraw cash from banks or Automated Teller Machines (ATMs).
With bonfires, the protesters barricaded the Sagamu-Benin expressway and other routes, denying commuters access and creating a chaotic atmosphere.
The Secretariat of the Sagamu Local Government has been reportedly vandalized due to the actions of the protesters.
Schools and other public places, shops and offices have also been shut down over the development for fear of being attacked.
The Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remo land, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, has urged residents to stay calm as all possible actions to engage the federal government over the naira scarcity is being carried out.
A statement signed by the Oba read: “I appeal to all to remain calm and peaceful as we continue to engage the Federal Government.
“This policy is not from the State or local government. Therefore, the destruction of lives and properties will only compound an already bad situation.
“I urge our people to continue to accept the old notes in line with the Supreme Court ruling. No person who accepts the old notes would lose out. I can assure you of that, and please hold on to that promise.
“Further, I am also mandating all our market people to continue to accept the old notes. I hereby undertake that no one will lose out for possessing the old notes.”
