By Douglass Ogbonna
The Anambra State House of Assembly has called for an immediate end to the Monday Sit-at-Home order and urged residents, traders, and other groups to resume full economic and social activities.
During a session led by Mr. Johnbosco Akaegbobi, the lawmaker representing Nnewi South 2, members expressed concerns over the long-standing disruption caused by the sit-at-home, which has led to significant economic losses in the South-East region.
It is estimated that the region loses N88.08 billion each Monday, with Anambra State alone suffering N19.6 billion in losses.
The lawmakers pointed out that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are the hardest hit, losing approximately 60% of the financial losses.
Micro-businesses also face an estimated N4.6 trillion in annual losses due to the repeated shutdowns.
The Majority Leader, Mr. Ikenna Ofodeme, expressed regret that a few individuals, benefiting from market closures, are fueling the continued sit-at-home.
He specifically highlighted the negative impact on Onitsha Main Market, a key economic hub in the region.
Other lawmakers, including Mr. Jude Ngobili, Mr. Chidi Ibemeka, and Mr. Golden Iloh, also condemned the Monday sit-at-home and urged residents to take advantage of improved security in the state to end the economic sabotage.
The Speaker, Mr. Somtochukwu Udeze, commended the motion, emphasizing the need for people to appreciate the infrastructural progress under the Soludo administration and to bring an end to the four-year business disruption.
