ONITSHA — Tension in Anambra State escalated dramatically on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, as hundreds of traders from the Onitsha Main Market attempted to defy Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s closure order and prepared for a mass march to the Government House in Awka.
The crisis began on Monday, January 26, when Governor Soludo made an unscheduled visit to the commercial hub and found markets closed in continued observance of the illegal Monday “sit-at-home” order. In a punitive response, the Governor ordered the immediate one-week sealing of the market, warning that non-compliance would result in a one-month closure and potential demolition of the market structure.
The Enforcement
On Tuesday morning, heavily armed security personnel, including teams from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, and Department of State Services (DSS), barricaded all entrances to the sprawling market, turning back hopeful traders. Security vehicles, including Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), were strategically positioned to enforce compliance with the Governor’s directive.
Trader Outrage and planned March
Disgruntled traders at the Ochanja Market and other plazas reacted with outrage to the enforcement. They described the shutdown as an illegal violation of their fundamental rights to choose when to open their private businesses, citing security fears as the primary reason for their actions.
- Vows to Protest:Â Traders vowed to “shut down the government house” in Awka if the Governor does not rescind the closure order immediately. The Anambra State Police Command had previously cautioned residents against unauthorized street protests in Awka.
- Economic Impact: The government defended its stance, with the Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, stating that the state loses an estimated ₦8 billion weekly due to the sit-at-home, which has persisted for about four years.
- Divergent Views:Â While the government insists it has provided adequate security, traders argue that a climate of fear persists, making opening for business on Mondays a high-risk endeavor.
As of Tuesday afternoon, Onitsha remains under a heavy security blanket as the high-stakes standoff continues, with residents awaiting the outcome of the traders’ proposed march to Awka to challenge the administration’s authority.
