Professor Chukwuma Soludo, governor of Anambra state, has defended the closure of Onitsha Main Market. He said the decision was necessary to protect the state’s economy.
Soludo spoke on Thursday in Awka during a press conference. He said the government shut the market after traders failed to open their shops on Monday.
Why the Market Was Closed
Soludo said he visited several parts of the state on Monday, January 26, 2026.
He said trading activities were ongoing in many areas. However, the Onitsha Main Market remained mostly shut.
According to the governor, the market was under lock and key, with only a few shops open.
Soludo said traders stayed away because they were observing the sit-at-home directive in parts of the south-east.
He said the government had earlier warned that markets must open or face closure.
After confirming the situation, Soludo said the state decided to shut the market for the rest of the week.
Soludo Describes Sit-At-Home as Economic Sabotage
Soludo described the sit-at-home practice as harmful to Anambra’s economy.
He said Mondays are critical for business activities, especially for suppliers and traders.
According to him, closed markets force buyers and investors to move to other states.
He warned that the trend could weaken the state’s economy over time.
Soludo said Anambra cannot afford to operate a four-day work week.
He added that the state must remain open for business to protect jobs and secure its future.
Warning to Markets and Schools
Soludo said the government will not tolerate closed markets on Mondays.
He warned that any major market that fails to open again may be locked for weeks.
The governor also issued a warning to private schools.
He said schools in Anambra must operate from Monday to Friday.
According to him, any school that remains closed will be shut down by the government.
Ipob Reacts
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has reacted to the market closure.
Emma Powerful, spokesperson of the group, described the sit-at-home as civil disobedience.
He said the governor cannot force traders to open their shops.
According to him, traders stay away for safety reasons.
Protests Trail Closure
The closure has triggered protests in parts of Onitsha.
Some traders accused the government of worsening their hardship.
Others said insecurity remains the reason many traders avoid opening on Mondays.
The protests have increased tension between traders and the state government.
Soludo Insists on Enforcement
Despite the backlash, Soludo said the government will enforce its decision.
He said Anambra must reclaim its economy and protect its future.
The governor said security operations against criminal elements are ongoing.
He added that Anambra is now among the safest states in Nigeria.
Soludo said the government remains committed to restoring full economic activity across the state.
