Governor Chukwuma Soludo took decisive action on January 30, 2026. He ordered the immediate remodelling of Onitsha Main Market. This decision followed a one-week closure of the market.
The Initial Closure
Authorities closed the market earlier that week. Soludo visited the site on January 27 and found shops locked due to the sit-at-home order. He directed security agencies to seal the market for one week.
Traders protested the shutdown. They blocked roads and expressed anger. However the governor warned that non-compliance would lead to longer closures. Soludo stated, “You either decide that you are going to trade here or you go elsewhere. I am very serious about this.”
Reasons for the Decline
The market suffered from years of issues. Soludo highlighted the impact of sit-at-home orders. These actions shut down operations for over 260 days. He explained, “The Onitsha Main Market, in its current state, is no longer functional. We have done the study. The main market is no longer what it was designed to be. It has literally died.”
Additionally, poor urban planning contributed to the chaos. Wide streets from the 1970s vanished. Trucks once entered easily, but parking became impossible. Billions of naira disappeared weekly. Customers shifted to markets in nearby states.
The Remodelling Plan
Experts drafted a rebuilding plan in 2023. The state aimed to transform the 25-hectare site. Traders selected Option 2 for revitalization. This approach focused on sustainable development.
Soludo emphasized, “The remodelling efforts align with my manifesto to create planned and sustainable markets and communities and cities.” The plan included demolition of illegal structures. Officials promised efficient logistics over small stalls.
Stakeholder Reactions
Market leaders supported the move. Chairman Chijioke Okpalaugo announced, “We recognise that leadership requires difficult choices, and we accept this path for the ultimate good of ndị Anambra and the survival of our iconic market.” However they requested a grace period. This allowed evacuation of goods.
Critics voiced concerns. Reps member Obi Aguocha challenged the method. He argued, “Governor Soludo cannot force, punish or compel private business owners to close or open their shops.”
Aguocha added, “The governor’s effort has been executed in the most unconstructive and unacceptable manner.”
Despite opposition, Soludo pushed forward. He aimed to restore the market’s glory. Following these events, stakeholders awaited implementation. The remodelling promised a competitive future.
Path to Recovery
Soludo described the step as hard but necessary. He urged cooperation for economic revival. Therefore the government committed to security enhancements. Traders prepared for changes.
In conclusion, the order marked a turning point. It addressed long-standing problems in Anambra’s key market.
