Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has ordered the closure of the Onitsha Main Market for one week following traders’ failure to comply with the state government’s directive to disregard the Monday sit-at-home order.
The directive was issued on Monday during an on-site visit to the market by the governor, accompanied by senior government officials and security personnel.
Governor Soludo warned that the closure could be extended if traders continue to defy government instructions, noting that security agencies have already sealed the market to enforce compliance.
Describing the action as part of a broader effort to reclaim economic activities in the South-East, the governor said the continued observance of the sit-at-home order undermines public safety, economic stability, and government authority.
Despite repeated assurances of improved security and sustained appeals by the state government for traders to resume normal business activities on Mondays, Soludo expressed disappointment that many shop owners at the major commercial hub once again kept their stalls locked.
According to the governor, the widespread absence of traders amounted to a quiet but significant resistance, reflecting the persistent atmosphere of fear affecting economic life in the region.
“The government cannot stand by while a few individuals willfully undermine public safety and disregard official directives meant to restore normalcy,” Soludo said. “This is plain economic sabotage.”
He stressed that the state government remains committed to protecting lives and property and will continue to take firm measures to ensure full restoration of lawful economic activities across Anambra State.
The Onitsha Main Market is one of the largest commercial centres in West Africa, and its closure is expected to have significant economic implications if prolonged.
