JUST IN: Soludo Orders One-Week Closure of Onitsha Main Market Over Sit-at-Home Defiance

Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has ordered the immediate closure of Onitsha Main Market for one week, citing traders’ refusal to comply with government directives to disregard the ongoing Monday sit-at-home orders.

The market, one of West Africa’s largest commercial hubs, will remain shut until next Monday. Authorities have warned that failure to reopen fully could result in an extended closure of up to one month, a move that could disrupt supply chains and trading activities across the South-East.

The state government has framed the closure as necessary to restore economic order and enforce the law, highlighting that continued observance of the sit-at-home order undermines public safety, encourages criminal activity, and deters business investment.

Government officials also issued a warning to market unions, transport operators, and individuals allegedly promoting the sit-at-home directive, stating that anyone found complicit could face legal action and regulatory sanctions. Security agencies have been placed on alert to protect traders willing to open their shops.

Reactions from traders are mixed. Some have welcomed the decisive action, calling it overdue, while others remain apprehensive, citing past incidents of violence related to defying sit-at-home orders.

The state government has assured residents that adequate security measures are in place and urged traders to cooperate, emphasizing the need to safeguard both lives and the economy.

The coming week will determine whether Onitsha Main Market reopens, with potential implications for the broader economic stability of Anambra State.