Tension gripped Onitsha, Anambra State’s commercial hub, as traders protested the continued closure of the Main Market and adjoining markets. The action follows Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s directive requiring markets to operate on Mondays.
From as early as 6:30 a.m., heavy security presence — soldiers, police and Operation Udo-Ga-Achi operatives — sealed entry points, preventing traders from accessing their shops. Nearby markets including Marine, Biafra, Kano Street, Sokoto Road, William Street and Bida Road were also affected.
The enforcement is part of the state’s effort to end the Monday sit-at-home, which it describes as economic sabotage. However, groups of traders tried to force entry before being turned back, while others gathered to chant protest songs and appeal for the order to be lifted.
Some traders accused authorities of deploying strong security now without having offered similar protection in past years when attacks occurred during sit-at-home enforcement. They argued that earlier protection might have prevented today’s standoff.
The Igbo Community Association in Abuja urged the governor to reopen the market to prevent escalation. While acknowledging his development efforts, the group called for dialogue and de-escalation to safeguard livelihoods and public order.
