Traders and market leaders in Anambra State, particularly in Onitsha, are increasingly worried about the ongoing impact of the sit-at-home orders, despite directives from Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo for markets to remain open on Mondays.
South-East PUNCH investigations reveal that major markets such as Main Market, Ochanja Market, Bridgehead Market, Ogbo-Osisi, Ogbo-Ogwu, Ose-Okwodu, Mgbuka-Amazu, and Tomato markets in Onitsha, as well as those in Nnewi and Awka, continue to observe the Monday sit-at-home order issued by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN). This has resulted in markets, motor parks, schools, banks, and other public places remaining closed every Monday, with roads largely deserted.
IPOB initially declared the Monday sit-at-home order in 2021 to protest the detention of its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, following his rendition from Kenya. Despite IPOB's suspension of the directive, fear of reprisals from hoodlums has led to continued compliance. Traders and other business owners who defied the order in the past have faced violence, including abductions and property destruction.
One notable case is the abduction of Chief Enibe Francis, Chairman of Mgbuka Amazu Market, who was kidnapped in 2023 while attempting to open the market as per state directives. Armed assailants abducted him during the sit-at-home, and his whereabouts remain unknown.
Chief Humphrey Anuna, President of Anambra State Markets Amalgamated Traders Association, confirmed the abduction and reported ongoing efforts to locate Francis. According to Anuna, Francis was taken by gunmen who forcibly removed him from his shop and have not been heard from since.
Governor Soludo has repeatedly urged market leaders to ignore the sit-at-home order and ensure markets open on Mondays, warning that non-compliance could lead to removal from office. Despite these warnings, the fear of violence has led market leaders to adopt a cautious approach. Many markets, including the New Auto Spare Parts Market and Ogbaru Main Market, are open but operate without any trading activity due to security concerns.
Chief Ndubuisi Ochiogu, Chairman of Ogbaru Main Market, stated that while he ensures the market gates are open, he remains at the market office throughout Monday to avoid issues. He expressed regret over the continued absence of Chief Francis and the lack of action by authorities.
Another market leader, Kene, described the ongoing situation as distressing, noting that while they follow the governor’s directives for Monday prayers and sanitation, the fear of abduction has led to a lack of business activity.
Residents and market leaders alike have expressed frustration over the inability of security forces to address the threats posed by the hoodlums, raising concerns about their safety and the future of the sit-at-home orders in the region.
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