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Soludo The Peacemaker! Onitsha Market Booms Again As Residents Hail Governor’s Bold Move
Residents of Anambra State, particularly traders in Onitsha, have expressed deep appreciation for Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s efforts in restoring peace and order to the commercial hub.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Their praise follows the establishment of the Special Anti-Touting Squad Agency (SASA) in 2022, a bold initiative by the Soludo administration aimed at tackling touting, extortion, and street-level crime.
Speaking with journalists on Friday in Onitsha, Mr. Samuel Iwunna, a long-standing trader, described the agency as a “miracle.”
“SASA is a huge blessing to us, especially here in Onitsha,” he said. “I now come to Upper Iweka to trade without fear. No more bag-snatching or harassment by touts. We thank Governor Soludo for his foresight and for appointing a competent leader to head this agency. It takes a strong leader to execute such an operation.”
The visible presence of SASA operatives has not only curbed criminal activity but also boosted confidence among traders and commuters.
“Anyone criticizing SASA or calling for its removal does not want peace for Ndi Anambra,” Mr. Iwunna added. “Since the agency was formed, the atmosphere has become calm and secure.”
Mrs. Chinwe Eze, a food vendor in Ochanja Market, echoed the sentiment.
“The SASA officers are doing a fantastic job. We used to shut down early out of fear, but now we stay open longer and trade in peace. The government must continue to support them—they’re the best thing to happen to us.”
Commercial drivers have also felt the positive impact. Mr. John Okoye, a bus driver on the Onitsha-Asaba route, said:
“We used to be harassed at multiple points and forced to pay illegal levies. SASA has put a stop to that. For transport workers like me, SASA is a game-changer.”
As the 2025 general elections draw closer, many residents are openly pledging their support for Governor Soludo, citing his security reforms and people-focused governance.
“Governor Soludo gets our vote—21/21,” declared a group of traders at Relief Market. “Thanks to SASA, peace has returned to Onitsha.”
The SASA initiative is now widely regarded as a shining example of how visionary leadership and responsive governance can transform a community. Governor Soludo’s vision of a “liveable and prosperous homeland” is taking shape, with SASA serving as a model for grassroots security and urban discipline.
“The message is clear: peace is back in Onitsha, and SASA is here to stay,” concluded Mr. Onu.
During a community feedback session, more residents expressed overwhelming approval for SASA, praising the state government’s firm stance against criminality and public disorder.
