Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has issued a stern warning to Banks, saying “If a bank refuses to accept deposits of old notes, the Lagos State Government will report the bank to the CBN and immediately shut down the offending branch”.
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| Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu |
Sanwo-Olu also pleaded with “businesses in Lagos to accept the old notes as it is legal tender”, also warming that heavy sanctions await anyone who rejects old notes.
The Governor revealed, the State government has already kicked off “monitoring”, as he released contacts to lodge complaints for speedy resolutions.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said: “My dear Lagosians, I have noted the difficulties that you have been having over the naira redesign crisis. I feel your pains.
“Kindly note that commercial banks have been directed to accept the old N500 and N1,000 notes as deposits and pay them out for withdrawals.
“Putting the needs of our residents above all, we successfully got a Supreme Court verdict which extends the validity of the existing Naira notes till Dec 31st, 2023.
“The CBN at a Bankers Committee meeting yesterday directed Banks to resume acceptance in compliance.
“I urge all businesses in Lagos to accept the old notes as it is legal tender.
“Anyone rejecting these notes will be heavily sanctioned as we kick off monitoring.
“If a bank refuses to accept deposits of old notes, please lodge a complaint with LASCOPA on 08124993895.
“The Lagos State Government will report the bank to the CBN and immediately shut down the offending branch.
“I assure you that this too shall pass as the authorities are working to ensure that the teething problems of the redesigning of our currency are resolved.”
