The presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu, has expressed sadness over the violent protests that have rocked the nation over the lingering naira scarcity.

Speaking in a signed statement, the former governor referenced reports of arson and destruction in Delta, adding that he sympathisers with aggrieved Nigerians.

Tinubu assured citizens that the challenging phase would soon pass while acknowledging the efforts by governors to cushion the effects of the scarcity.

He asked Nigerians not to take the law into their hands as destroying lives and properties would solve the problem.

“I am saddened by reports of violent protests in parts of our country today, especially in Delta, Oyo, Kwara and Edo states. In Delta, there were reports of arson and destruction of bank branches. 

I sympathise with all Nigerians who are going through the pains of not being able to get money from banks and ATM points to meet their basic daily needs.

“I also sympathize with the banks for being victims of the CBN currency redesign policy.

“Be rest assured that this phase will soon pass away as our governments at both the federal and state levels are working to surmount the current challenges.

“With the Supreme Court reaffirming its order of 8 February on monetary authorities to allow the old and new Naira notes to circulate together, I believe a solution is right on the way and the scarcity of Naira notes will soon be over. 

“I am happy to note the various measures being put in place by many of our Governors to cushion the effect of the scarcity of Naira on households.

I want to appeal to our young people not to take the law into their hands through destructive protests.

“We feel your pains and frustration but destroying lives and properties will not solve any problem.

“Rather, it will only complicate the crisis we have on our hands”, part of the statement reads.