Traders in Onitsha Main Market pledged to end the long standing Monday sit-at-home order. They declared their readiness to resume full business activities starting the following Monday. This decision followed an interactive session with Anambra State Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo.
The Persistent Sit-at-Home Challenge
The sit-at-home practice originated in the South-East region. It led to calls for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra. However Governor Soludo clarified that the order no longer linked to Kanu or IPOB interests.
Furthermore Soludo questioned the practice’s relevance. He noted that it did not occur in Umuahia, Kanu’s hometown. “It is not linked to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. He does not support the sit-at-home. If it doesn’t happen in Umuahia, his hometown, why Onitsha and Nnewi?” Soludo stated.
Governor Soludo’s Firm Stance
Soludo declared an end to market closures due to sit-at-home. He insisted that all markets and shops in Anambra State remained open every working day, including Mondays. Additionally he described the enforcement as a “criminal enterprise.”
As a result, Soludo ordered a one-week shutdown of Onitsha Main Market. This action addressed non compliance with his directive to halt the practice. He warned that persistent defiance would face extreme measures from the government.
Traders’ Crucial Meeting
Market leaders met with Soludo to discuss the issue. Chijioke Okpalugo, Chairman of Onitsha Main Market, spoke to journalists after the session. He expressed support for the governor’s vision.
Moreover Okpalugo highlighted economic losses. “We have lost so much fortunes since the creation of the Monday sit-at-home in the south-east region,” he said. “We have resolved to be opening for full activities on Monday.”
Resolution and Appeals for Security
Traders resolved to fully operate on Mondays. They aimed to restore normal business rhythms. In addition, they appealed for enhanced security to protect lives and property.
Specifically they requested visible police presence in markets. They also called for full operation of motor parks to aid movement. “Our governor is a listening and progressive minded governor. We strongly believe that, with this appeal, he will consider us and reopen the market for our good because he loves his people,” Okpalugo added.
Economic Impact and Future Outlook
The sit-at-home caused significant disruptions. It led to weekly losses of up to N19.6 billion in the South-East. Moreover Soludo promised a security overhaul around markets to prevent harassment.
Furthermore, he offered options for market redevelopment. Traders could choose renovation or a full rebuild into a modern hub. This step ensured business continuity while addressing infrastructure needs.
In conclusion, the pledges marked a shift toward economic recovery. Traders aligned with the governor’s push for a unified Anambra. Security improvements remained key to sustaining the change.
