Soludo Enforces Monday Market Opening, Seals Shops in Anambra

By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

The Anambra State Government has sealed shops in Onitsha and Ogidi for failing to open during the “Monday sit-at-home.” 

This enforcement action on February 16, 2026, targeted traders who ignored the state’s directive to resume Monday business activities.

“The government of Anambra State, under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, is highly impressed by the courage and patriotism displayed by the electrical parts dealers in Obosi, as 80 percent of the market is open,” the state government declared while praising those who defied the lockdown.

Special Adviser Evarist Uba led a monitoring team to assess compliance across major trade hubs. He warned you that any shop found locked during the exercise would remain sealed for two weeks to serve as a deterrent to other non-compliant traders.

In contrast, the government praised the Electrical Parts Dealers Market in Obosi for its high turnout. Approximately 80 percent of shops there were open, marking a major step toward ending the weekly lockdowns that have crippled the regional economy.

The monitoring committee, including top security and information officials, also visited Nnewi to encourage productivity. They emphasized that the administration is committed to protecting traders who choose to defy illegal orders from non-state actors.

Market leaders expressed support for the government, noting that enhanced security has given them the confidence to open. They urged fellow traders to prioritize the state’s economic prosperity by maintaining regular business hours every Monday.