Korede Abdullah 
Anambra State Governor, Soludo
ANAMBRA, Nigeria – Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo orders the closure of Onitsha Main Market for one week after traders defy government directives to resume normal trading on Mondays.
Soludo issues the order on Monday during an on-the-spot inspection of the market, as security agencies move in to seal the premises and enforce compliance.
The governor warns that the closure may be extended if traders fail to reopen after the one-week sanction.
“The government cannot tolerate actions that undermine public order and economic recovery. This is economic sabotage,” Soludo says.
He describes the continued compliance with sit-at-home orders as a “quiet rebellion” driven by fear, despite assurances of improved security across the state.
“You must decide whether you want to trade here or not. We are very serious about restoring normal economic life,” he adds.
A joint task force comprising police, army and other security agencies secures the market to prevent unauthorised activity.
The shutdown aligns with the state’s broader strategy to end sit-at-home disruptions, following a recent policy announcement that civil servants’ salaries will be paid pro-rata from February 2026 based on Monday attendance.
State officials say the measures are necessary to stabilise the economy and restore public confidence.
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