Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has ordered the immediate closure of Onitsha Main Market as part of efforts to stop what the government describes as economic sabotage linked to the illegal Monday sit-at-home order. The shutdown, which took effect immediately, is expected to last for one week. The decision follows repeated warnings to traders and market leaders to stop complying with the sit-at-home directive.

Government sources said the closure became necessary after many traders continued to stay away from their shops on Mondays, despite assurances of security. Officials insist that the sit-at-home order has no legal backing and has continued to hurt businesses, reduce government revenue and scare away investors. Onitsha Main Market is one of the largest markets in West Africa and plays a major role in trade across the South-East and other parts of Nigeria.

The state government has warned that if the market does not fully reopen by next Monday, the closure will be extended to one month. Authorities say such a move, though tough, is aimed at restoring law and order and reviving economic activities. Security agencies have been placed on alert to protect traders who are willing to resume business, while anyone found enforcing or promoting sit-at-home will face sanctions.

While some traders welcomed the action, saying it was long overdue, others expressed fear over their safety, citing past violence linked to sit-at-home defiance. The government, however, reassured residents that adequate security measures are in place. It urged traders to cooperate in the interest of economic survival, warning that continued shutdowns could further damage livelihoods across Anambra State.