By Muhammad Mamman
In a decisive move, Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has ordered the closure of the bustling Onitsha Main Market for one week, effective Monday, January 26, 2026. The action comes after traders defied government directives by refusing to open for business in apparent support of a “sit-at-home” order.
Governor Soludo described the defiance as a threat to economic stability and warned that the shutdown is aimed at enforcing compliance with lawful government directives. He emphasised that the government remains committed to ensuring public order and uninterrupted commercial activity in the state.
The Onitsha Main Market, one of the largest trading hubs in Nigeria, is a critical centre for both local and regional commerce. The shutdown is expected to impact thousands of traders and customers, as well as the broader supply chain.
Market associations have reportedly called for dialogue with the government, urging a balanced approach that ensures safety while minimising economic disruption. Meanwhile, the governor’s office has stated that the suspension period will be used to engage stakeholders and enforce adherence to laws governing public conduct.
This week-long closure underscores the tensions between government authority and civil compliance in the state, highlighting the challenges of maintaining law and order amid socio-political activism.
