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By Sunny A. David, Awka
The Nigerian Army has assured traders at the Onitsha Main Market and other major commercial centres in the South-East of adequate security and protection.
This assurance was contained in a statement issued in Enugu by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division, Lt.-Col. Olabisi Ayeni.
According to Ayeni, the Army remains fully deployed and on high alert, with intelligence-driven kinetic operations ongoing to dismantle the remaining elements of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
He said traders and other law-abiding citizens would be protected using every necessary measure, adding that the reopening of the Onitsha Main Market represents a bold and patriotic step toward restoring peace and economic stability in the region.
“The Headquarters, 82 Division, commends the courageous and patriotic traders of Onitsha Main Market for reopening their businesses after years of yielding to empty threats by enemies of the nation,” Ayeni stated.
“This decision reflects a collective stand for peace, security and economic progress in Anambra State and the South-East at large.”
Ayeni noted that criminal elements, disguising themselves as freedom fighters, had for years instilled fear and disrupted the livelihoods of hardworking citizens.
He explained that the threats aimed at crippling commerce, destabilising communities and eroding public confidence had been effectively neutralised, stressing that the traders’ resilience further validates the efforts of security agencies in the region.
“By rejecting intimidation and resuming business activities, they have demonstrated courage, resilience and a strong commitment to peace and progress,” he said.
The Army spokesperson urged residents to go about their lawful activities without fear, ignore intimidation and remain steadfast in the face of what he described as “empty threats.”
He further warned criminal elements to lay down their arms and embrace peace, noting that unrepentant offenders would face the full force of the law.
“No hiding place will shield criminals from justice. The Nigerian Army remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting lives and property and defending Nigeria’s sovereignty,” Ayeni said.
He also called on the public to disregard misinformation aimed at undermining security operations, while encouraging residents to provide credible intelligence to security agencies for prompt action.
Ayeni added that the 82 Division would continue to collaborate with civil authorities, traditional institutions and other security agencies to ensure lasting peace across Anambra State.
He disclosed that the General Officer Commanding, 82 Division, and Commander, Joint Task Force South-East, Operation UDO KA, Maj.-Gen. Oluremi Fadairo, commended the Anambra State Government for its political will and support.
According to Fadairo, the state government’s collaboration with security agencies has been crucial in the ongoing fight against terrorism and in restoring normalcy in the region.
“The partnership has strengthened public confidence and created an enabling environment for commerce to thrive,” the GOC said.
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