Anambra Market Shutdown Persists Despite Soludo’s Instructions To Resume Business

Anambra Market Shutdown Persists Despite Soludo’s Instructions To Resume BusinessCommercial and economic activities came to a standstill on Monday in key markets across Anambra State, including Onitsha, Nnewi, Obosi, and Ekwulobia. Many traders opted to stay away, leaving shops in major markets such as Onitsha Main Market, Ochanja Market, Nkpor Motor Parts Market, Electrical Market, and Mgbuka Market shuttered.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The usual Monday closures extended to motor parks, banks, petrol stations, schools, offices, and law courts. This was in stark contrast to last week’s directive from Governor Chukwuma Soludo, who had threatened to seal any shop or plaza that remained closed due to the ongoing sit-at-home.

Governor Soludo expressed concern over the persistent boycott, highlighting that the South-East region loses an estimated N19.6 billion each Monday. He warned that traders and businesses failing to open would face severe penalties, including shop closures for up to one month.

“I am here to ensure that your shops are open. From now on, every Monday, the Main Market must be open for business. If you fail to open, your shop will be sealed for one week, and possibly longer,” Soludo stated.

The governor had also promised enhanced security around the markets, with police and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps personnel patrolling to maintain order. However, as of Monday, he had yet to fulfill his promise to visit the market.

While NSCDC officers were observed conducting “anti-sit-at-home operations” and encouraging traders to open, many remained fearful. A textile trader at the Main Market, Udoka, remarked, “Some of us came to see the situation. The NSCDC presence is reassuring, but many are still afraid of potential attacks.”

The sit-at-home order originated from the Indigenous People of Biafra in August 2021 as a means to pressure the government for the release of their detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu. Although the order was officially suspended except on court appearance days, many continue to observe it out of fear.

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