Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, has described the renewed Monday sit-at-home observed by some traders as a calculated attempt to cripple the state’s economy.
Speaking at a press briefing in Awka, Soludo alleged that certain politicians are sponsoring the sit-at-home action, insisting that the weekly shutdown of major markets is a coordinated move by what he called “enemies of the state and the South East.”
The governor labelled the development economic sabotage and warned that his administration would not tolerate it. He said the one-week closure earlier imposed on Onitsha Main Market would remain in force and could be extended by two more weeks if traders fail to resume business on Mondays after the sanction period.
Soludo also brushed aside threats of legal action by traders, stressing that the market belongs to the Anambra State Government, which has the authority to regulate its use in the interest of public safety and order.
He added that the government could revoke shop ownership rights, compensate traders, and take over the market if required in the overriding public interest.
Questioning the timing of the sit-at-home, the governor noted that the market operated freely during the Christmas and New Year festivities, with business activities thriving on Mondays and even Sundays before the holidays.
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