Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo has accused certain politicians of orchestrating the renewed Monday sit-at-home observed in parts of the South East.
He specifically pointed to Onitsha Main Market and Nnewi as the areas most affected, describing the shutdown as a deliberate attempt to disrupt economic activities in the state.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Light House in Awka, Governor Soludo stated that the weekly closure of these major markets “is not a coincidence but a coordinated effort by individuals he called enemies of the state and the South East region.”
He added that the development amounts to “economic sabotage” and emphasized that it “will not be tolerated by his administration.”
The governor warned traders that the one-week closure imposed on Onitsha Main Market last Monday would remain in effect and could be extended by an additional two weeks if the market fails to open on a Monday after the current sanction expires.
He also dismissed threats from traders to take legal action against the state government over the market’s closure.
Explaining the government’s authority over the matter, Soludo said, “Onitsha Main Market belongs to the Anambra State Government and the government has the legal authority to take decisions over its use in the interest of public safety and order.”
He further noted that the government could, if necessary, “revoke shop ownership rights, pay compensation, and take over the market for overriding public interest.”
The governor questioned the timing of the sit-at-home orders, pointing out that the market operated freely during the Christmas and New Year period without major security incidents.
“Business activities were booming in the market every Monday and even on Sundays before the New Year celebrations,” he observed.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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