Heavy Security Presence At Onitsha Market As Traders Voice Frustration Over Closure

Trader frustration over the government’s strategy and strict control over Onitsha Main Market in Anambra State have expressed their dissatisfaction with the closure of the market.

Some traders questioned the fairness of the shutdown, claiming that many business owners who had traveled abroad and to larger markets had purchased goods and were prepared to launch sales following the yuletide period. However, others claimed that the directive would cause hardship for many who depend on daily income to survive.

Some traders, on the other hand, praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo for the action, noting that compliance with an order issued by a recognized state authority outweighs compliance with an order issued by unknown actors.

Some people said they are prepared to resume business after the governor appealed to maintain the same level of security for Monday.

READ MORE: Soludo shuts down Onitsha Main Market for a Week Over Sit-At-Home.

Employees from the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Army, and the Nigerian Police Force were immediately dispatched to help block entrances and obstruct traders from gaining access to their stores. To turn back those attempting to enter the market, additional operatives were stationed at crucial locations.

Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga responded to the development by stating that the state government’s directive requires the government to maintain law and order.

In order to protect public safety, security, and economic stability, he urged traders to abide by the directives, adding that security forces would keep Onitsha and other Anambra State’s calm and orderly.

Following an unscheduled inspection on Monday, Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s order to close Onitsha Main Market resulted in the closure of the business. Most traders had not yet opened their stores in accordance with the sit-at-home rule put in place by non-state actors.

The government has stressed that Mondays are now routine working days and warned against imposing stricter sanctions on any contravention.