Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption (PACAC), Prof. Itse Sagay (SAN), on Sunday came down hard on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for trying to force the cashless policy on Nigerians.
Speaking exclusively with Newsmen, Sagay, who backed the calls for the extension of the January 31 withdrawal date of the old notes, said most automated teller machines (ATM) are still dispensing the old notes while the new ones are not fully in circulation.
Describing CBN’s governor, Godwin Emefiele’s statement that there is no going back on the policy as brutish, uncivilised and barbaric, Sagay warned that the policy can create an economic disaster for Nigeria if not urgently addressed.
Sagay particularly said the policy which is unpopular with many Nigerians may affect the fortunes of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 general elections.
He said, “I am even angry that this government allows him to do that because it will make the APC unpopular. This hardship is being created under an APC government and the election is just around the corner.
“I think Emefiele may be a mole from another party trying to create hatred for the APC. I don’t understand why he should bring this policy at this time when we are just a few days before the general election.
“I don’t understand why this government should accept such a recommendation which is most unfavorable to them and their political chances in the forthcoming elections. For me, the whole thing is a disaster”.
