Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, on Saturday, appealed to residents to remain calm, even in the face of the difficulties and frustrations due to cash shortage.

Mr Sanwo-Olu appealed while addressing journalists at Lagos House, Marina, on the current situation caused by the naira redesign in the country.

He urged Lagos residents to avoid violence, arson and rioting, noting that such actions were not the solutions to the difficulties and frustrations presently experienced.

”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 know that there are unscrupulous persons who want to sow seeds of violence and discord by their very utterances and actions, all with the view of robbing you of the chance to cast your votes in the February 25 presidential and National Assembly elections.

”Do not allow them to use you to achieve their evil intentions,” the governor said.

The governor stressed that there was no justification for attacking public or private property.

He said the law enforcement agents had received clear instructions to take full control and ensure zero tolerance for any act of arson, violence and destruction.

Mr Sanwo-Olu enjoined all law-abiding residents to carry out their lawful activities without fear.

”As a government that fully understands the challenges you are faced with, with regards to access to cash, we are working very hard to provide palliative measures to lessen the burdens being faced.”

The governor said he had reduced transportation charges and discussed with private operators not to hike fares to cushion the effect of the naira scarcity.

”We have also since commenced the distribution of food packs to the most vulnerable citizens, the people most impacted by this disruption in the supply of cash.

”We will continue to highlight more vulnerable groups within our distribution channels who would benefit from the palliatives.

”As we scale up the rollout of these palliatives, we ask for your continued patience and understanding. Remain calm and go about your lawful activities and duties,” he said.

The governor said the government under his watch would continue to stand by, with and for the ordinary people of Lagos.

He thanked the police and other security agencies for working round the clock to maintain the state’s peace, law and order.

(NAN)