By Uche Kalu
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has reached an agreement with leaders of the Onitsha Main Market to end the long-standing Monday sit-at-home practice, directing that all markets and shops across Anambra State must henceforth open for business every working day.
The directive followed a strategic meeting between the governor and market leaders from across the state in Awka, where discussions centred on restoring full commercial activities and resolving issues surrounding the recent closure of the Onitsha Main Market.
In a press statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, the governor declared that the sit-at-home order, which has significantly disrupted economic and social life in the Southeast, would no longer be tolerated, stressing that Anambra must reclaim its position as a thriving commercial hub.
“For four years, we engaged with you. We discussed, pleaded, and even held prayer sessions with all the churches in April 2022 to end this. It is now time for more action,” Soludo said.
He gave traders a “renovate or rebuild” ultimatum for the Onitsha Main Market, offering the option of demolishing existing structures to construct a modern, world-class trading complex or undertaking a comprehensive upgrade of current facilities. He, however, emphasised that whichever option is adopted, business activities must continue uninterrupted, including on Mondays.
The governor further argued that enforcement of the sit-at-home has degenerated from a political protest into what he described as a criminal enterprise. He alleged that many of those compelling compliance are not indigenes of Anambra State and warned that the government would take “extreme measures” against any continued defiance.
Responding on behalf of the traders, the Chairman of the Onitsha Main Market, Mr. Chijioke Okpalugo, pledged compliance with the directive, assuring that traders would resume full Monday operations in line with the administration’s vision of “One Anambra.”
The market leadership, however, raised concerns about logistics and safety, calling for enhanced security and operational support to guarantee a smooth transition. They requested a visible and proactive security presence to protect traders and customers, the reopening of motor parks to attract buyers from within and outside the state, and decisive action against individuals benefiting from or enforcing the shutdown.
In response, Soludo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding commercial centres across the state, promising an overhaul of the security architecture in markets to prevent intimidation and harassment.
“Igbo land and Anambra will move forward,” he declared.
