Governor Chukwuma Soludo has warned traders in Onitsha that continued sit-at-home actions after the market ban will result in the government taking over their shops, vowing tougher enforcement measures in 2026.
Soludo warned that traders who refuse to open their shops after the ban would face severe consequences, including extended closures enforced by the government.
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has issued a stern warning to traders and residents amid ongoing protests and resistance following the one-week closure of the Onitsha Main Market.
Addressing the situation, the governor declared that the era of tolerance for sit-at-home actions and market shutdowns had ended, warning that the state government would take over shops if traders continue to defy the ban.
“This madness must end. I will take over the shops and convert them to offices and posts for Agụnechemba if the sit-at-home continues after the ban,” Soludo said.
The governor traced the government’s response to sit-at-home enforcement over the years, explaining that previous approaches had failed to yield results.
“….In 2022 and 2023, we fought it. In 2024 and 2025, we pleaded. But in 2026, we are shifting to gear 4, no backing down,” he stated.
Soludo warned that traders who refuse to open their shops after the ban would face severe consequences, including extended closures enforced by the government.
“Anyone who closes their shop, we will help them close it for one week. From next week, if they refuse to open by Monday, I will shut down the market and take over some of them,” the governor added.
The warning comes amid protests by traders and residents over the one-week ban placed on the Onitsha Main Market, a move the state government says is necessary to restore order, security, and economic stability in the commercial hub.
“….In 2022 and 2023, we fought it. In 2024 and 2025, we pleaded. But in 2026, we are shifting to gear 4, no backing down. Anyone who closes their shop, we will help them close it for one week. From next week, if they refuse to open by Monday, I will shut down the market and take… pic.twitter.com/BC4zrUjelm
— Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) January 28, 2026
