‘We’re in this together’ — Abdulrazaq suspends campaign over naira scarcity

Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, governor of Kwara, says he is postponing rallies until further notice due to the crisis over the scarcity of naira notes. 

The supreme court restrained the federal government from enforcing the February 10 deadline for the validity of the old naira notes.

Abubakar Malami, attorney-general of the federation, had said the government would obey the court order but the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) insisted on the deadline.

On Wednesday, the supreme court restated that the old naira notes remain legal tender.

Speaking on the chaos around the country as a result of the naira note scarcity, Abdulrazaq, in a statement on Wednesday, said he is” putting his public rallies on hold”. 

He also said he understands the inconveniences caused by the naira scarcity and pleaded with residents of the state to remain calm.

“I express my sincere sympathy with you on the continuous scarcity of the naira as a result of the recent CBN’s currency redesign,” he said. 

“For clarity, the Supreme Court has granted an injunction that allows the old and the new notes to coexist. This injunction is still valid until the highest court rules otherwise. 

“I, therefore, want all of you to be calm, law-abiding, and peaceful. Let us not attack one another or destroy one another’s properties. 

“I am appealing to you to remain calm and peaceful, and not to give in to any frustrations or engage in any form of violence. 

“I testify to the inconvenience this development has brought. We are in this together, and I assure you that this will be over in the shortest possible time. I really appreciate your patience.

“In solidarity with the mood of the public, I’m putting my public rallies on hold until further notice.”