By Obinna Duru
Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has assured that his administration is not reneging on the recent directive for the temporary closure of shops at Onitsha Main Market for one full week.
Governor Soludo stated this at a media briefing at the Governor’s Lodge in Awka.
He stressed that the measure is part of efforts to end the disruptive sit-at-home orders that have been hampering economic activities across the Southeast region.
The Governor recounted his visit to Nnamdi Kanu during his DSS custody, noting that Kanu expressed disappointment over the Monday sit-at-home orders that affect local businesses.
Governor Soludo blamed the shutdown of the Onitsha Main Market on the actions of one Simon Ekpa, describing them as inciting insecurity and causing significant economic sabotage that goes beyond individual businesses.
He emphasized the importance of the Main Market as a state-owned asset and warned that the government has the authority under the Land Use Act to revoke ownership rights and repurpose the land if necessary.
The Governor also expressed surprise that the market was able to operate on Mondays during the festive Yuletide period, despite claims of insecurity, while closures continue on regular days after the holidays.
Governor Soludo apologized to shop owners affected by the closure, describing it as collateral damage in a larger effort to restore economic stability and effective governance in the state.
