Soludo Shuts Onitsha Market for One Week Over Sit-at-Home Defiance

Soludo Orders One-Week Closure of Onitsha Market Over Sit-at-Home Defiance




The Anambra State Government has ordered the closure of major markets in Onitsha for one week following alleged defiance of the state’s directive against the continued observance of sit-at-home activities.


The decision was announced under the directive of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, as part of efforts to enforce compliance with government policies aimed at restoring normal economic and social activities across the state.




According to government officials, the action followed reports that some traders in Onitsha markets continued to shut down businesses on Mondays, despite repeated assurances by the state government that sit-at-home orders had been suspended.


Authorities described the continued closure of shops as, a threat to the state’s economy, a form of indirect compliance with non-state directives and a violation of government instructions.  The government insists that normal business activities must resume fully to protect livelihoods and ensure public order.



The Soludo administration has consistently stated that no group has the authority to enforce sit-at-home in Anambra State, emphasizing that such actions; cripple economic activities, endanger traders and transporters and create fear and uncertainty. State officials say the market closure is not punitive, but corrective, aimed at compelling adherence to lawful directives. 



         Related story: 

Anambra Government Ends Monday School Closures, Warns of Sanctions for Non-Compliance:

https://everydaystorynetwork.blogspot.com/2026/01/anambra-ends-monday-school-closures.html





Onitsha is one of West Africa’s largest commercial hubs, and any disruption has wide-reaching economic consequences. The one-week shutdown is expected to affect traders’ daily income, disrupt supply chains, impact transport and logistics. However, the government maintains that short-term sacrifice is necessary to restore long-term stability.



Security agencies have been deployed around the markets to, enforce the closure, prevent illegal activities and ensure public safety. Traders have been warned against attempting to reopen shops during the closure period, as sanctions may follow.


The Anambra State Government has urged traders, transport unions, and residents to, cooperate with government policies, resist intimidation from non-state actors, and resume lawful activities without fear. Officials reaffirmed that security agencies are committed to protecting lives and property.




The government says markets will be reopened after a full review, provided traders demonstrate readiness to comply with official directives. Authorities also hinted that stronger measures could be taken if defiance persists.


The closure of Onitsha market marks one of the strongest actions yet by the Soludo administration to end sit-at-home disruptions and stabilize economic life in Anambra State.

Residents are encouraged to remain calm and follow official communication channels for updates.


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