Civil unrest and violence have erupted in several areas of Lagos State, including Ojota, Agege, and Mile 12, over the new naira policy, which declared the old ₦500 and ₦1,000 notes illegal.
Youth in the area were reportedly shooting sporadically and brandishing weapons, making it difficult for vehicles approaching Mile 12 from Ikorodu to pass through.
While the area has been restored to normalcy, police officers have been deployed to the region to investigate the cause of the violence.
Protests have been taking place across the country since the Central Bank of Nigeria and President Muhammadu Buhari declared the old ₦500 and ₦1,000 notes illegal.
The instigators of the violence have been described as protesters who were destroying both private and public institutions. The police have warned that anyone doing so “would be treated as an armed robber.”
The violence is troubling and highlights the need for authorities to identify the underlying causes and take steps to address them. While peaceful protest is a fundamental right, it is important that such protests remain peaceful and do not turn violent.
The police must act responsibly and respect the human rights of all individuals, even in the face of public unrest. It is crucial that citizens work together to build a peaceful and prosperous future for Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole.
This violence in Lagos is a reminder of the importance of addressing the root causes of civil unrest and implementing policies that promote stability and economic growth.
It is essential to ensure that all citizens have access to economic opportunities and social services, and that the government is accountable and transparent in its decision-making processes.
In the long run, the stability and prosperity of Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole depend on the ability of its leaders to work together with citizens to address the underlying causes of civil unrest and build a more just and equitable society.
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