The Anambra State Government has announced that Onitsha Main Market will reopen on Monday, February 2, allowing traders to resume full commercial and economic activities after a week-long closure.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo had ordered the temporary shutdown after traders reportedly ignored the state government’s directive to disregard the long-standing Monday sit-at-home order associated with the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The directive was issued during an on-the-spot visit to the market by the governor, who was accompanied by top government officials and security operatives. Soludo had warned at the time that continued disobedience could result in a prolonged closure or tougher sanctions.
Following the shutdown, IPOB spokesperson Emma Powerful reacted by announcing a total lockdown across the South-East on February 2, describing it as a show of solidarity with affected traders and a protest against the market closure. He said the action would be voluntary and peaceful, calling on schools, banks and other institutions to shut down.
However, in a statement released on Sunday, Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, confirmed that the one-week closure had elapsed.
“This is to inform the general public that the closure of Onitsha Main Market, ordered by Mr Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, lapses this weekend,” the statement said.
Mefor added that traders were expected to fully resume business. “Accordingly, all traders are hereby directed to resume business as usual on Monday, February 2, 2026, as there is no longer any form of sit-at-home on Mondays in Anambra State.”
The commissioner assured residents of adequate security across the state, urging vigilance and cooperation. “Ndị Anambra and residents are assured of adequate security and are encouraged to report any security concerns to 5111,” he said.
He also reminded public sector workers and parents of existing government policies. “Meanwhile, civil servants and teachers are reminded that the pro-rata salary system remains in force — no work on Monday, no pay.
“Parents are also advised to release their children for school on Mondays to avoid sanctions.”
The state government further called on residents to ignore threats from non-state actors, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining peace and ensuring maximum security throughout Anambra.
