Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra state has announced the reopening of Onitsha Main Market, effective Monday, February 2, 2026, after a one-week shutdown due to traders’ compliance with the Indigenous People of Biafra’s (IPOB) Monday sit-at-home order.
Traders have been directed to resume business as usual, with security measures in place to ensure their safety. The governor had warned that failure to reopen would result in further sanctions, and civil servants are reminded that the pro-rata salary system remains in force – no work on Monday, no pay
“We have ended sit-at-home in Onitsha.
For the first time in five years, Onitsha is opened for business. We are happy, and I want to declare that those of you who came out today are the original Anambra people. I’m going to shop in main market today. I’m an original Onitsha boy, don’t be surprised if I haggle with you on prices of items” Governor Soludo said amidst cheers from the crowds.
