Traders across Anambra State largely ignored calls for a Monday sit-at-home by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), resuming business in a show of compliance with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s directive.
The Onitsha Main Market, the commercial hub of the state, reopened on Monday, February 2, after a one-week government-mandated closure following reports of previous non-compliance.
Traders returned early Monday, arranging wares along major entrances including The Young Park, Emeka Offor Plaza, Sokoto Road, and Lagos Line, signalling a return to normal commercial activity.
According to reports, trading activities began as early as 8:45 a.m.
Customers were observed patronising shops, demonstrating a notable shift toward routine Monday business.
Governor Soludo personally visited markets to reaffirm that Monday sit-at-home orders have ended and assured traders of adequate security.
The state government had warned that defiance could trigger further closures, underscoring the seriousness of the directive.
READ ALSO: Soludo Draws Line: Monday Sit-at-Home Ends In Anambra
Despite government assurances, IPOB hailed the day as a success.
In a statement signed by Comrade Emma Powerful, the group said, “Streets and markets from Omambala to Onitsha were largely deserted… a historic show of unity in support of our leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.”
The group described the observance as a peaceful civil protest, celebrating “deep love, loyalty, and resolve” toward Kanu.
Security agencies reinforced the state’s position, cautioning residents against social media disinformation and highlighting the threats posed by non-state actors.
The Anambra Police Command noted that coordinated social media campaigns aimed to “cause panic, undermine public confidence, and disrupt the peace currently enjoyed in the State,” urging residents to report suspicious activities and ignore unverified content.
Observers described Monday as a turning point for economic restoration, marking the gradual reclamation of Mondays for business in Anambra.
Markets in Awka, Nnewi, and surrounding towns also recorded brisk trade, signalling that government directives are gradually outweighing separatist calls in the region.