Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has ordered the closure of the Onitsha Main Market for one week after traders reportedly defied the State Government’s directive to resume normal business activities on Mondays.
The Governor announced the decision during an unscheduled visit to the bustling commercial hub, describing the continued observance of sit-at-home orders as a major setback to the state’s economy.
According to him, persistent shutdowns driven by fear and misinformation have continued to cripple trade despite improved security arrangements.
Soludo warned that the gyovernment would no longer tolerate actions that undermine economic recovery and public order. He stressed that traders who choose to operate in Anambra State must comply with official directives, adding that the one-week closure could be extended if compliance does not improve.
Security operatives have been deployed around the market to enforce the shutdown and prevent unauthorised trading during the closure period. State officials say the move is aimed at restoring confidence, protecting livelihoods, and reinforcing the authority of the Government.
The Monday sit-at-home practice, which emerged in the South-East amid separatist tensions, has lingered despite repeated assurances from authorities. Many traders have continued to shut their shops out of fear of violence, leading to significant economic losses across the region.
Residents and business owners are now watching closely to see whether the Government’s hardline stance will bring an end to the recurring disruption of commercial activities in Anambra State.
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