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By Sunny A. David, Awka
Markets in Anambra State recorded mixed reactions on Monday following the State Government’s renewed push to end the prolonged sit-at-home order affecting economic activities across the State.
In Onitsha, the Main Market officially reopened for business after a directive by Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, with traders resuming activities as early as 7:00 a.m. The market had been shut the previous week as part of government efforts to counter the sit-at-home order enforced by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) over the continued detention of its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Governor Soludo had warned that any trader who failed to reopen their shop after the one-week grace period, which expired on Monday, February 2, 2026, risked having their shop revoked.
Despite compliance with the directive, traders at the Onitsha Main Market expressed deep concerns, particularly over the planned demolition of more than 10,000 shops within the market.
Speaking to journalists, a trader, Mr. Uzuchukwu Okoye, appealed to the Governor to suspend the proposed demolition, describing it as more devastating than the sit-at-home order itself.
“We reopened our shops today in obedience to the Governor’s directive, despite the fear and uncertainty,” Okoye said. “We are here to support the government and promote our market, but fear remains our major challenge. We also appeal for adequate security and for banks around the market to resume operations.”
He urged the State government to halt the planned demolition to give traders enough time to prepare for proper relocation.
Another trader, Mrs. Nwada Chinyere, who operates at Emeka Ofor Plaza, commended the heavy presence of security operatives, including the Police, army, and state-owned security outfits—Agụnechemba and Udogachi. She appealed to the Governor to sustain the security deployment.
Chinyere questioned why Anambra State had remained an exception, noting that markets in other South-East States had continued to operate on Mondays for over two years. According to her, consistent security presence across all Onitsha markets remains the most effective solution to ending the sit-at-home order.
Human rights activist, Comrade Osita Obi, who also visited the market, praised Governor Soludo’s efforts and assured traders that the era of sit-at-home orders was gradually coming to an end. He urged traders to elect credible and visionary leaders to manage market affairs.
Security operations at the Onitsha Main Market were coordinated by the Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, alongside other security agencies.
Meanwhile, in Nnewi, markets were open but commercial activities remained largely subdued, as many traders stayed away and customers were scarce.
A visit to major markets showed that only a few traders opened their shops. Markets observed to be partially operational included Nwagbara Market and the machine parts section of Nkwo Nnewi Market, known for motorcycle and motor spare parts trading.
Other sections that recorded minimal activity included the motor spare parts area, Odu Igbo section, grocery stalls, old motor spare parts, as well as building and textile materials sections.
The Executive Chairman of Nnewi North Local Government Area, Hon. Echezona Anazodo, toured parts of Nkwo Nnewi Market to assess compliance with the Governor’s directive mandating full market operations on Mondays. He commended traders who opened their shops despite lingering fear.
“There is adequate security stationed at strategic points. The Governor has put measures in place to ensure the safety of traders and residents,” Anazodo said, urging residents to resume their normal business activities and encouraging market leaders to lead by example.
However, many traders were seen relaxing at roadside joints instead of opening their shops. Some cited fear of possible attacks, saying they were unwilling to risk their lives.
One trader, who spoke anonymously, said, “The Governor should come and drag me to the market. IPOB has threatened severe consequences for anyone who disobeys the sit-at-home order.”
Others said they were not convinced that the security presence would be sufficient in the event of an attack.
Across the town, groups of youths were seen playing football and engaging in other recreational activities, while economic activities remained largely at a standstill. Banks, schools, and other public and private offices also remained closed.
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