Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has ordered the closure of the Onitsha Main Market for one week over the continued observance of the Monday sit-at-home.
The governor announced the decision in a statement shared on his social media pages on Monday, January 26, 2026. He described the sit-at-home as “protracted economic sabotage” that is harming the state and its people.
“Today, I have ordered the shut down of the Onitsha Main Market for one week due to the protracted economic sabotage cloaked as ‘Monday sit-at-home’. Going forward, this order would apply to any other market in Anambra that shuts down on Monday,” Soludo wrote.
He said the decision was taken to protect the economic interests of Anambra residents and warned that no group has the right to disrupt livelihoods.
“This action is not taken lightly, as I am determined to protect the economic interests of our state and its people. No individual or group has the right to halt the lives and livelihood of the people,” he stated.
Governor Soludo called on traders and market leaders to ignore the sit-at-home order and return to their businesses, stressing the need for collective effort to grow the state’s economy.
“I urge all traders and market stakeholders to disregard this call to economic sabotage and resume business as usual. Let us work together to build a prosperous Anambra,” he said.
He also issued a warning to those enforcing or supporting the sit-at-home, assuring residents that the government would act firmly to maintain security.
“To those who continue to aid and abet this economic sabotage, I warn that we will not tolerate it any further. Our government will take all necessary measures to ensure the security and safety of lives and property in the state,” Soludo added.
Reassuring the public, the governor encouraged residents to go about their normal activities without fear, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to making Anambra a safe place for business.
“We will continue to do everything possible to protect our economy and ensure that our state remains a hub for business and investment. Let us stand together against economic sabotage and build a brighter future for our state. May Anambra continue to win!”
