Soludo spoke during a meeting with market leaders from different parts of the state at the Light House in Awka. He explained that those forcing people to stay at home on Mondays are using fear and violence to shut down businesses, damage the local economy, and cause hardship for residents. According to him, the action has moved away from its original political meaning and has turned into a system used by criminals to make money and disrupt daily life.
The governor said Kanu does not support the sit-at-home order and pointed out that the practice does not even take place in Umuahia, Kanu’s hometown. He questioned why cities such as Onitsha and Nnewi should continue to observe it if it is truly linked to Kanu. Soludo recalled his past involvement in efforts to secure Kanu’s release and said he had also visited him after becoming governor, noting that Kanu had not backed the sit-at-home action.
Soludo’s remarks came amid growing concern over the long-term effect of the Monday shutdowns on businesses, especially following the recent closure of the Onitsha Main Market. He announced that all markets and shops in Anambra State must now open every working day, including Mondays, and warned that the era of forced closures was over.
Addressing traders directly, the governor presented plans for the future of major markets, including the option of full reconstruction or large-scale renovation to create a modern trading environment. He assured traders that the state government would provide strong security within and around markets to protect lives, goods, and property, and to restore confidence among business owners and customers.
Soludo also warned that many of those enforcing the sit-at-home order are not from Anambra State and said the government would take firm action if the defiance continues. He added that the state would not allow fear to hold its economy hostage.
In response, market leaders welcomed the governor’s engagement and expressed readiness to reopen on Mondays, though they raised concerns about safety and logistics. The chairman of the Onitsha Main Market pledged that traders would comply with the new directive and support the state’s vision of a united and thriving Anambra. The traders also asked for visible security patrols, functional transport services, and action against those who benefit from or promote the sit-at-home practice.
The governor concluded by restating his commitment to securing all commercial centres in the state. He said the government would improve security arrangements across markets and, in the long term, modernise facilities to meet international standards. He stressed that business activities must continue and that Anambra State would keep moving forward despite past challenges.
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