The governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has temporarily suspended political campaigns and implemented measures to ease the burden of residents suffering from the combined effects of the fuel and naira scarcity crisis. In a statewide address, Governor Makinde emphasized his administration’s dedication to improving the situation.
He expressed disappointment at the violent protests that occurred in Ibadan on Friday, stressing that the government supports peaceful demonstrations but will not tolerate violence. Governor Makinde also placed security agencies on high alert to prevent any potential law and order breaches.
He encouraged residents to utilize their Permanent Voter Cards (PVC) in the upcoming general election as a means of promoting responsible governance, warning that violence only creates more problems.
In an effort to alleviate the hardships faced by the public, the governor has directed the deployment of free Omituntun mass transit buses on more routes and is collaborating with local government chairmen to provide immediate support to those in need.
Governor Makinde strongly urged citizens to conduct their activities peacefully and reassured them that security agencies are on high alert to maintain order. He emphasized that violence is not a solution and that the public has an opportunity to make a positive change through the ballot.
Protests in Ibadan, the state capital, erupted as a result of the ongoing fuel and naira scarcity, with bonfires being set near the government house before being dispersed by police.
The protests initially started on a small scale on Monday but escalated on Friday as youth and traders took to the streets, burning tires and blocking roads. The recent redesign of the N200, N500, and N1,000 notes by the Central Bank of Nigeria has caused difficulties for many Nigerians in obtaining the new currency.
