Anambra Gov Soludo Insists on Shutting Down Onitsha Main Market if Residents Uphold Sit-at-home

Anambra Gov Soludo Insists on Shutting Down Onitsha Main Market if Residents Uphold Sit-at-homeAnambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has declared that there will be no reversal of the state government’s decision to shut the Onitsha Main Market if traders and residents continue to observe the Monday sit-at-home. The governor warned that persistent defiance of government directives could force authorities to take more drastic actions, including the possible demolition of the market.

Soludo, who spoke during a visit to the commercial hub, described the continued closure of shops on Mondays as an act of economic sabotage that has crippled business activities and revenue generation in the state. He insisted that the government would no longer tolerate actions that undermine public order and the economic survival of millions who depend on the market for their livelihood.

The governor stressed that insecurity should no longer be used as an excuse for traders to shut down their businesses, noting that the state has deployed adequate security to protect lives and property. He warned that shop owners who refuse to comply risk losing their trading rights, as the government could revoke ownership of stalls and take over the facility.

Soludo called on traders and residents to cooperate with the government in restoring normal economic activities, insisting that the sit-at-home practice has no legal backing and only worsens hardship in the South-East. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enforcing the rule of law and reviving Anambra’s economy, adding that the Onitsha Main Market would remain closed until full compliance is achieved.