Tension flared at the Onitsha Main Market in Anambra State on Tuesday as traders and residents staged protests against the state government’s decision to shut the market for one week over alleged non-compliance with the sit-at-home order.
The anger was directed at Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s decision to close the market after authorities said traders defied directives to end sit-at-home practices. Early in the day, security operatives moved in and sealed all entrances to the market, effectively halting commercial activities.
Despite the heavy security presence, protesters gathered around the market area, defying the shutdown. Witnesses said gunshots were heard, heightening tension, but this did not deter the crowd from assembling.
The protesters sang solidarity songs in support of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu. Chants such as “Holy, Holy, Holy” and “Nnamdi Kanu is another saviour” echoed around the market vicinity as demonstrators voiced their discontent.
The protest underscored growing frustration among traders and residents, many of whom depend on daily market activities for survival and see repeated closures as economically damaging.
Melissa Enoch
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