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By Sunny A. David, Awka
The leadership of the Onitsha Main Market in Anambra State has described Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s decision to shut the market for one week as a wise and timely move aimed at restoring economic stability in the State.
The Market Chairman, Hon. Chijoke Okpalaugo, made this known on Tuesday while speaking with journalists at his office in Onitsha. He said the temporary closure was in the overall interest of traders, customers, and residents of the State, particularly in addressing the economic losses caused by the persistent Monday sit-at-home order.
According to Okpalaugo, the Market leadership fully supports the Governor’s action, noting that traders have suffered significant financial setbacks since the introduction of the sit-at-home practice in the South-East.
Recall that Governor Soludo ordered the immediate closure of the Onitsha Main Market for one week following an unscheduled visit to the market on Monday, January 26, 2026. During the visit, the Governor observed that many traders had failed to open their shops despite repeated government directives mandating the resumption of business activities on Mondays.
The Anambra State Government has officially abolished the Monday sit-at-home order, which was initially linked to security concerns and separatist agitations. The policy shift is part of broader efforts to restore normalcy, boost economic activities, and improve security across the State.
Governor Soludo stated that the market would remain closed for seven days, during which all trading activities would be suspended.
Reacting further, Okpalaugo appealed to the Governor to temper justice with mercy by considering reopening the market before the end of the stipulated period.
“Our Governor is a listening and progressive leader. We believe he will consider our appeal and reopen the market for the good of the people,” he said. “Although the decision is tough, it is a welcome development and came at the right time.”
He disclosed that traders were earlier warned by the state government on Thursday, January 22, 2026, that the market would be shut if shops failed to open on Monday.
The Market Chairman also urged traders to remain calm, law-abiding, and avoid taking the law into their own hands.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that the market, including nearby banks, remains under lock and key, with a heavy presence of security agencies to prevent any breakdown of law and order in the area.
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