The House of Representatives has expressed worries over the persistent cash shortage in commercial banks nationwide, urging the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to take immediate action to alleviate the hardship it has caused citizens.

The motion, presented under Matters of Urgent Public Importance by Uguru Emmanuel, emphasised the widespread economic and social challenges stemming from the cash scarcity, which has left many Nigerians struggling to access funds for essential needs.

Emmanuel stressed that economic growth depends significantly on consumer spending and business investments, both of which have been severely hampered by the ongoing cash crunch.

The lawmaker, representing Abakaliki/Izzi Constituency recalled that the CBN in its policy directive of December 21, 2022, set cash withdrawal limits of N500,000 for individuals and N5 million for corporate entities.

However, he observed that commercial banks have largely disregarded this policy, often limiting cash withdrawals to as little as N10,000 or nothing at all.

“Entrepreneurs and individuals are subjected to long queues, sometimes spending days at banks without success. This situation has particularly affected rural dwellers who rely on cash for transactions and lack access to digital payment systems,” helamented.

The lawmaker further raised alarm over the apparent disconnect between commercial banks and Point of Sale (POS) operators, who seem to have unlimited access to cash, often selling it at exorbitant rates.

“Where do POS operators get their cash from while banks remain dry?” he queried.

The lawmaker warned that unless the CBN takes immediate action, the situation could worsen, especially with the approach of the festive season, leaving businesses frustrated and citizens plunged into deeper economic hardship.

In its resolution, the House mandated the committee on banking regulations to investigate the cash crunch in commercial banks and report back within one week.

The House directed the CBN to urgently address the cash scarcity if it is not responsible for the shortage. (The Nation)