Soludo Enforces One-Week Shutdown: Security Seals Off Onitsha Main Market as Defiant Traders Gather Outside

 

Onitsha, Anambra State – Heavy security presence dominated the iconic Onitsha Main Market on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, as operatives cordoned off entrances and enforced Governor Chukwuma Soludo's one-week closure order.

The directive, issued the previous day during an unscheduled visit by the governor, punishes traders for defying the state government's repeated calls to ignore the lingering Monday sit-at-home practice. Many shops remained locked on Monday, prompting Soludo to describe the observance as "protracted economic sabotage cloaked as sit-at-home."

A joint task force comprising police, Nigerian Army personnel, and other agencies swiftly sealed major gates, turning away traders attempting to access their stalls. Eyewitnesses reported groups of traders gathering outside the perimeter, watching security operations unfold while unable to enter. The atmosphere was tense but no major incidents were reported.

Governor Soludo, who warned during his visit that further non-compliance could lead to a month-long shutdown, emphasized protecting the state's economy and residents' livelihoods. In a statement, he urged traders to resume normal business without fear, assuring enhanced security measures. Anambra Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, defended the action, noting the state loses approximately N8 billion weekly to the sit-at-home.

The Monday sit-at-home, enforced since 2021 by IPOB to press for Nnamdi Kanu's release, has crippled economic activities across the South-East despite the group's official suspension. Compliance continues in some areas due to lingering fears.

In response to the closure, IPOB's spokesman reportedly directed traders to open shops regardless, challenging the governor's authority over private businesses. However, as of Tuesday, the market remained shut under heavy guard, with no visible attempts by IPOB affiliates to force reopening.

The Onitsha Main Market, a vital commercial nerve center for the region, plays a critical role in trade across West Africa. The shutdown has sparked debates on balancing security, economic freedom, and state authority. Civil society groups have expressed concerns over the impact on traders' livelihoods, while supporters praise Soludo's resolve to reclaim public spaces.

The market is slated to reopen on Monday, February 2, 2026, provided full compliance. Authorities have indicated the policy will extend to other Anambra markets observing sit-at-home in the future.

This development underscores ongoing tensions in the South-East over non-state directives versus government efforts to restore normalcy and boost investment.