The Anambra State government has directed traders in twelve additional markets to resume normal operations on Mondays, warning that non-compliance could result in temporary market closures.
This follows last week’s closure of Onitsha Main Market after traders refused to open on Mondays, an action the government said disrupted business activities.
The markets now required to operate include: Ochanja Central Market, Bridgehead Market, Ogbaru Main Market, Building Materials Market Ogidi, Agba-Edo Auto Spare Parts Market Nnewi, New Auto and Motorcycle Spare Parts Market Nnewi, Fairly Used Motorcycle Spare Parts Market Nnewi, New Auto Spare Parts Market Nkpor, Nkpor Main Market, Old Mercedes-Benz Spare Parts Dealers Market Nkpor, Old Motor Spare Parts Market Obosi, and Electrical Dealers International Market Obosi.
A circular titled “Abolishment of Monday Sit-at-Home”, signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade and Markets, Chief Evarist Uba, directed market leaders to ensure traders resume full operations on Mondays, as mandated by Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo.
The government will conduct random inspections, and markets that fail to comply may face closures of up to one month. Shops that remain shut risk being sealed, with owners potentially facing legal consequences.
Governor Soludo has also scheduled a meeting with market leaders for Thursday, January 29, at the International Convention Centre in Awka to discuss market operations and the Monday sit-at-home policy. Chairmen, secretaries, zonal leaders, and line chairpersons from markets across the state are expected to attend.
Authorities stated that the meeting was requested by some market leaders seeking the reopening of Onitsha Main Market and is not a response to recent traders’ protests. Security measures will be heightened to ensure the meeting proceeds without disruption.