The Governor of Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Wednesday, February 9, 2023, paid a visit to Gabriel Michael, who was hit by a stray bullet during the naira and fuel scarcity protest in Abeokuta, on Tuesday.
Michael is currently receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre, Idi Aba, Abeokuta.
Protesters had stormed the Ogun State capital to express their displeasure over the naira scarcity experienced in the State and across the country.
Addressing journalists, Abiodun implored residents of the State to remain calm and peaceful, saying the destruction of property is not the solution to the current situation.
He said the government will ensure that all concerned issues are addressed to avoid further protests and violence.
“I plead with everyone in Ogun State; your governor is doing everything humanly possible at this time. We have spoken to the President and the Central Bank of Nigeria governor. I have met with bankers and monarchs too.
“Please, do not resort to any form of violence. This is not who we are in Ogun State. We are a peace-loving people. We are the Gateway State, the industrial capital of Nigeria. We are not violent people. We are going to get over it. Let us be peaceful and orderly,” he said.
He blamed the CBN for the slow speed in replacing the new notes with old notes as the cause of the crisis.
However, he said actions are on to ensure it is resolved.
“We cannot resort to violence. Looting banks and breaking Automated Teller Machine terminals will not solve the problem. You will only create fear in the minds of the bank staff and they won’t open their doors and attend to you.
“So, if there is a supply of cash in the banks and they are not open, we will still be just as frustrated. Please do not take it out on the bankers,” Abiodun said.
He further urged the Federal Government to keep investing in human resources and investment with much-needed equipment.
“One of the takeaways from this is that we have local capacity. If the government can continue to invest in our human resources and match them with equipment, we can save the lives of our people.
“I believe that from COVID-19 and its experiences, we have continued to build capacity; hence we have been able to intervene as we have done with this boy’s life,” he disclosed.
