Newspaper Headlines: Bank ATMs still dispensing old naira notes despite CBN directive

The Punch says the scarcity of petrol grew worse in many parts of the country as the petrol now sells at N300 per litre. The newspaper reports that Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has been criticised for saying members who wish to get appointments and contracts in his administration must ensure the party wins in their polling units.

The Nation reports that Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo, and Bayo Lawal, his deputy, shunned the presidential rally of the PDP in Ibadan, Oyo state capital, on Thursday. The newspaper says the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has threatened to impose severe sanctions on banks hoarding new naira notes.

Daily Independent reports that the CBN has moved to tighten its regulations against money launderers and terrorism financiers. The newspaper says the Lagos state government has directed petrol stations on highways to close by 4 pm on weekdays to address traffic congestion.

Daily Trust reports that automated teller machines (ATMs) are still dispensing old naira notes despite the directive of CBN. The newspaper says an outbreak of Diphtheria disease has killed 25 persons in Kano state.

The Guardian reports that the federal government has acceded to the arm-twisting antics of marketers by quietly approving an increment in the pump price of petrol. The newspaper says the National Judicial Council (NJC) has condemned the failure of some state governments to pay retirement benefits to judges.