The Anambra state government says Onitsha Main Market will reopen on Monday, February 2, for full commercial activities after a one-week closure. Governor Chukwuma Soludo had ordered the shutdown after traders ignored a state directive to disregard the Monday sit-at-home enforced by the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB. The order followed an on-the-spot visit to the market by the governor, alongside senior officials and security operatives.
The closure prompted a reaction from Emma Powerful, the IPOB spokesperson, who announced a total lockdown across the south-east on February 2 in protest against the action. He said the sit-at-home was voluntary and peaceful, urging schools, banks and other institutions to remain closed.
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In a statement on Sunday, the Anambra commissioner for information, Law Mefor, said the closure had expired and directed traders to resume business. He said there was no longer any sit-at-home on Mondays in Anambra State, assured residents of adequate security, and urged them to report concerns to 5111. The government also reminded civil servants and teachers that the no work, no pay policy remains in force, and advised parents to ensure children attend school on Mondays.
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