The Anambra State Government has officially confirmed that the Onitsha Main Market will reopen on Monday, February 2, 2026, following the completion of a one-week closure imposed by the state authorities.
The closure was ordered by Governor Chukwuma Soludo after traders reportedly ignored government directives to resume normal business activities on Mondays, despite the state’s position against the sit-at-home practice.
One-Week Sanction Comes to an End
Governor Soludo had earlier directed security agencies to seal the market during an on-the-spot inspection, warning that the shutdown could be prolonged if compliance was not achieved.
The move was aimed at restoring full economic activities and discouraging disruptions caused by non-state directives.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, confirmed that the sanction period had expired and instructed traders to return to business without fear.
Government Assures Adequate Security
Mefor reassured residents and traders that security across the state has been strengthened, urging them to disregard threats or intimidation from unauthorised groups.
According to him, Anambra residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities or security concerns through the state’s emergency response line, 5111.
“There is no longer any sit-at-home on Mondays in Anambra State,” the commissioner stated, emphasizing the government’s commitment to protecting lives, businesses, and public institutions.
Warning to Civil Servants, Parents, and Teachers
The state government also reiterated that the pro-rata salary policy remains in effect for public servants and teachers, stressing that absence from work on Mondays will attract salary deductions.
Parents were further advised to ensure their children attend school on Mondays, as failure to comply may result in sanctions.
Economic Activities to Resume Fully
With the reopening of the Onitsha Main Market—one of the largest commercial hubs in West Africa—the government expressed optimism that economic confidence will be restored and commercial activities will return to normal across the state.
