Traders in Anambra State have renewed calls for enhanced security following the shutdown of the Onitsha Main Market over continued observance of the Monday sit-at-home across the state.
The Anambra State Government ordered the immediate closure of the Onitsha Main Market and adjoining markets for one week after traders reportedly failed to comply with Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s directive to resume business activities on Mondays.
The sit-at-home, which has been enforced for several years by non-state actors in the South-East, has severely disrupted economic activities in the region. Although the Soludo administration has repeatedly condemned the practice and urged residents to ignore the order, many traders say persistent security threats have made compliance difficult.
Speaking on Tuesday, traders described the market closure as punitive and insensitive, arguing that the government had not done enough to guarantee their safety. They recalled past incidents in which traders who attempted to open their shops on Mondays were attacked, killed, or had their property destroyed.
A trader, Mr Ugochukwu Okigbo, said fear remains widespread among traders, noting that assurances from government officials are insufficient without visible security deployment in and around markets.
“Traders are not deliberately defying the government; they are afraid for their lives,” he said, calling for professional security operatives to be stationed at major markets before enforcement measures are taken.
Another trader, Mr Daniel Nwachukwu, warned that the week-long shutdown of a major commercial hub like Onitsha Main Market would have devastating economic consequences. He said the closure would disrupt supply chains, worsen losses for traders dealing in perishable goods, and strain small businesses that rely on daily turnover.
Mrs Chikaodi Eze also expressed concern that a prolonged shutdown could trigger layoffs and deepen financial hardship for traders who depend on daily sales to repay loans and sustain their families.
Other traders argued that the government’s action could cause more economic harm than the sit-at-home itself, affecting transporters, artisans, consumers, and state revenue generation.
Community leaders also questioned the approach adopted by the state government. An Anambra chieftain, Chief Okwudili Ogbonna, said there was no legal basis for compelling traders to open their shops, describing the shutdown as an abuse of executive power in a free-enterprise society.
However, some residents defended the government’s decision, describing it as a bold step aimed at restoring economic normalcy in the state. They nevertheless urged authorities to strengthen security to prevent violence and reassure traders.
Governor Soludo announced the market closure during a visit to the Onitsha Main Market on January 26, warning that the shutdown could be extended if traders continued to observe the sit-at-home.
Traders have now appealed to the state government to prioritise security and dialogue, insisting that only a safe environment will enable them to resume business activities without fear.
PUNCH