By G9ija
The Economic Community of West Africa (ECOWAS) Observer Mission in Nigeria has urged the Federal Government to take prompt action to alleviate the fuel and cash shortages currently affecting citizens of the country.
In addition, ECOWAS stressed the need to address the security crisis in the country before the February 25 election.
Former President of Sierra Leone, Ernest Bai Koroma, who is leading the ECOWAS Observer Mission to Nigeria, delivered this message during a meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, in Abuja on Wednesday.
“We have had some concerns on the availability of fuel. Its limitation will affect the movement of everybody, including INEC.
“Another concern is that of the scarcity of cash – the limited liquidity in the system. This has been a concern that has been raised by our observers and also the political parties that we have met.
“Now, in addition to these two general concerns, there are security issues that affect specific locations and regions.” koroma said.
In his response, Onyeama acknowledged that the shortage of naira and fuel has been a major challenge for the Nigerian government.
He also revealed that the government has taken steps to ease the burden on Nigerians.
He said, “On the issue of cash availability and fuel – huge challenges. But I do understand that there are measures that are being taken in respect of fuel scarcity.
“Banks should be more readily available and the financial institutions will put the N200 notes in circulation.”
To ensure a peaceful and orderly election period, Onyeama urged politicians and their parties to maintain peace.