Sit-at-Home: Onitsha Main Market Reopens, Nnewi Records Low Turnout
Sunny David Onitsha
After months of economic paralysis triggered by the sit-at-home order, signs of cautious defiance emerged in Anambra on Monday as markets reopened, though fear still dictated the pace of business.
In Onitsha, the Main Market resumed operations following a directive by Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, with traders opening their shops as early as 7:00 a.m.
The reopening came after a one-week grace period granted by the state government to counter the sit-at-home order enforced by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) over the continued detention of its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
The grace period expired on Monday, February 2, 2026, with a warning that defiant traders risked losing their shops.
While traders complied, anxiety remained high.
Many expressed concern over the planned demolition of more than 10,000 shops in the market.
One trader, Mr Uzuchukwu Okoye, described the proposed demolition as more devastating than the sit-at-home order itself, appealing to the Governor to suspend the exercise and allow time for relocation.
Traders also called for sustained security and the reopening of banks around the market.
Security presence was heavy, with police, soldiers and state-backed outfits, Agụnechemba and Udogachi, on the ground.
Mrs Nwada Chinyere, a trader at Emeka Ofor Plaza, praised the deployment and urged the government to maintain it, noting that other South-East states had conducted business on Mondays for over two years without disruption.
Human rights activist, Comrade Osita Obi, who visited the market, commended the state government’s efforts and assured traders that the sit-at-home era was gradually ending, urging them to elect credible market leaders.
Security operations were coordinated by the Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, alongside other agencies.
In contrast, commercial activity in Nnewi remained largely subdued. Although markets opened, turnout was low, with only a few traders operating in areas such as Nwagbara Market and parts of Nkwo Nnewi Market, particularly the machine and motor spare parts sections.
Other sections, including groceries, textiles and building materials, recorded minimal activity.
The Chairman of Nnewi North Local Government Area, Hon. Echezona Anazodo, toured Nkwo Nnewi Market and commended traders who opened despite lingering fears, assuring residents of adequate security.
However, many traders stayed away, citing threats allegedly issued by IPOB and doubts about the ability of security agencies to respond effectively in the event of attacks.
Across Nnewi, banks, schools and offices remained shut, while groups of youths were seen playing football and loitering, underscoring the continued economic slowdown.
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