Sit-at-home: Anambra Governor Approves Demolition of 10,000 Shops at Onitsha Main Market

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, on Monday reportedly marked more than 10,000 shops at the Onitsha Main Market for demolition, directing affected traders to vacate the premises within 14 days.
The action followed the enforcement of Monday business activities in the state, aimed at ending the long-standing “sit-at-home” practice previously linked to protests by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), a directive the group has since renounced.

Onitsha Main Market, one of the largest commercial centres in West Africa, had been temporarily shut in late January after Governor Soludo observed that a significant number of shops remained closed on a Monday. He described the situation as an act of “economic sabotage.”
On February 2, traders partially returned to business, with some reportedly signing attendance registers. Governor Soludo also visited the market and made personal purchases during the visit.
However, despite the reopening, demolition notices were issued to shop owners, triggering shock and concern among traders. Many have appealed for an extension of the timeline, warning that the move could severely affect families and livelihoods, with tens of thousands potentially impacted.
Supporters of the decision argue that the demolition exercise aligns with the governor’s broader agenda to modernise the market, eliminate illegal structures, and restore normal economic activities.
As trading continues under heightened security presence, affected traders are calling for dialogue with the government, seeking either an extension of the deadline or alternative arrangements.
The development underscores Governor Soludo’s urban renewal and economic revitalisation drive, although observers note that the policy may come with short-term hardships for traders and residents.