Traders at the Onitsha Main Market, one of Nigeria's largest commercial hubs, have issued an urgent appeal to the Anambra State Government and security agencies for enhanced protection to enable safe business operations during the persistent Monday sit-at-home observances.
The appeal comes in the wake of Governor Chukwuma Soludo's recent directive to temporarily close the market for one week, following traders' reluctance to open on Mondays due to fears of violence and insecurity.
Market leaders emphasized that while they support the government's efforts to restore normalcy and boost economic activity, the lack of sufficient security has left traders vulnerable to threats from non-state actors enforcing the sit-at-home order.
Chief Emmanuel Okeke, Chairman of the Onitsha Main Market Traders Association, stated: "Our traders are the backbone of Anambra's economy, contributing billions in revenue weekly. However the ongoing sit-at-home has crippled our livelihoods, costing the state an estimated N8 billion every Monday.”
“We are not defying the government out of choice but out of necessity for our safety. We appeal to Governor Soludo and relevant security forces to deploy adequate personnel and measures to protect us, so we can confidently resume full operations from Monday to Saturday."
The sit-at-home, originally linked to demands for the release of IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has evolved into a broader security concern in the Southeast region. Traders report incidents of intimidation, property damage, and loss of life in past attempts to defy the order.
Despite assurances from the state government of increased security deployments, many traders remain skeptical, calling for visible and sustained patrols around markets and commercial areas.
Mrs. Ngozi Eze, a fabric dealer and vice-chair of the association, added: "We want to work and support our families, but fear for our lives holds us back. The government's closure of the market punishes us further without addressing the root cause. Provide us with the security we need, and we will open our shops without hesitation."
The traders' association has urged dialogue between the government, market stakeholders, and community leaders to find a lasting solution. They also called on residents to disregard unauthorized sit-at-home calls and resume normal activities, provided safety is guaranteed.