The Anambra State Government has ordered a one week shutdown of the Onitsha Main Market, following what it described as continued defiance of the government’s directive against the sit at home order.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo gave the directive on Monday, January 26, 2026, after reports showed that a large number of traders failed to open their shops for business despite repeated assurances from the state government on safety and security.

According to the state government, the closure takes immediate effect and will last for seven days. During this period, the market will remain shut, with no trading activities allowed.

Government officials said the decision was taken to send a clear message that economic sabotage and deliberate disobedience of lawful directives would no longer be tolerated in the state.

The Onitsha Main Market is one of the largest commercial hubs in West Africa and plays a critical role in Anambra’s economy. Authorities expressed concern that repeated closures caused by sit at home compliance were hurting traders, residents, and the state’s internally generated revenue.

Speaking through state officials, the Soludo administration said it had engaged market leaders, traders’ unions, and security agencies several times to ensure that businesses resumed fully on Mondays. Despite these engagements, many traders reportedly continued to stay away from their shops.

The government maintained that there is no official sit at home order recognized by the state and insisted that adequate security arrangements have been put in place to protect lives and property across major markets and roads.

Officials said the market shutdown was not meant to punish traders unfairly but to restore discipline and economic normalcy. They added that allowing continued disobedience would undermine confidence in government authority and discourage investors.

Security agencies have been directed to enforce the closure and ensure that the market remains sealed throughout the duration of the shutdown.

The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among traders and residents of Onitsha. Some traders expressed frustration, saying they were already suffering losses due to fear and uncertainty surrounding Mondays.

Others, however, blamed fellow traders for refusing to open despite assurances, arguing that the government had no option but to act decisively.

Residents who rely on the market for daily supplies also expressed concern about the impact of the closure on food prices and availability. Some fear that the shutdown could disrupt supply chains beyond Anambra State.

Market leaders are reportedly holding emergency meetings to engage with the government and seek a resolution before the end of the one week period.

Governor Soludo has consistently maintained a strong stance against sit at home disruptions, describing them as harmful to the economy and ordinary citizens. Since assuming office, his administration has repeatedly emphasized the need for residents to go about their lawful businesses without fear.

The state government has also increased security presence on major roads and commercial areas, while urging residents to report any threats or intimidation.

As the shutdown begins, attention is now on whether traders will comply with government directives once the market reopens, and whether the move will finally weaken adherence to sit at home practices in Anambra.

The state government has said it will continue to monitor the situation closely and take further action if necessary.