Traders at the Onitsha Main Market in Anambra State staged a protest on Tuesday in response to the state government’s decision to shut the market for one week, following directives issued by Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
Videos circulating widely on social media platforms, including X and Facebook, showed large crowds of traders gathering within the market area, carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs as they voiced their opposition to the closure.
Some protesters were also seen expressing support for the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, while others chanted slogans such as “Soludo, we no go gree o” and “Say no to Monday,” in apparent reference to the weekly sit-at-home practice affecting economic activities in the state.
The demonstration comes amid heightened tensions following the government’s move to enforce compliance with its directive against sit-at-home observance, which authorities say has continued to cripple commercial activities across Anambra.
Although no official statement had been issued by the state government at the time of filing this report, security operatives were said to be monitoring the situation closely to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
The protest underscores growing frustration among traders who depend on daily market operations for their livelihood, as calls intensify for dialogue between the government and market stakeholders to resolve the impasse and restore normal business activities.
