The Anambra State Government has ordered the closure of the Onitsha Main Market for one week over what it described as a “protracted economic sabotage” arising from the continued observance of the Monday sit-at-home directive.
The directive was announced by Governor Charles Soludo on Monday, with a warning that similar action would be taken against any other market in the state found shutting down business activities on Mondays.
Announcing the decision, the Governor said the closure was aimed at protecting the state’s and its residents’ economic interests, stressing that no individual or group has the authority to disrupt the livelihoods of law-abiding citizens.
“Today, I have ordered the shutdown of the Onitsha Main Market for one week due to the protracted economic sabotage cloaked as ‘Monday sit-at-home’. Going forward, this order would apply to any other market in Anambra that shuts down on Monday,” the Governor’s statement read.
Governor Soludo noted that the decision was not taken lightly, but was necessary to curb actions it said were crippling economic activities in the commercial state.
“This action is not taken lightly, as I am determined to protect the economic interests of our state and its people. No individual or group has the right to halt the lives and livelihood of the people,” he added.
The Governor urged traders and other market stakeholders to ignore the sit-at-home directive and return to their businesses, assuring them of adequate security.
“I urge all traders and market stakeholders to disregard this call to economic sabotage and resume business as usual. Let us work together to build a prosperous Anambra,” he said.
It also issued a stern warning to individuals and groups allegedly enforcing the sit-at-home order, saying the government would no longer tolerate such actions.
“To those who continue to aid and abet this economic sabotage, I warn that we will not tolerate it any further. Our government will take all necessary measures to ensure the security and safety of lives and property in the state,” the statement warned.
Reassuring residents, the Governor called on the people of the state to go about their daily activities without fear, reiterating its commitment to maintaining Anambra’s status as a commercial hub.
“I call on all residents of Anambra to go about their normal business activities without fear. We will continue to do everything possible to protect our economy and ensure that our state remains a hub for business and investment,” he stated.
He concluded by appealing for collective resolve against actions capable of undermining the state’s economy, saying “Let us stand together against economic sabotage and build a brighter future for our state. May Anambra continue to win!”
The Onitsha Main Market is one of the largest markets in West Africa and plays a critical role in the economy of Anambra State and the South-East region.
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