ACCI Appeals To Soludo To Reopen Onitsha Main Market Over Sit-At-Home Defiance

The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has appealed to Governor Charles Soludo to reconsider the temporary closure of Onitsha Main Market, citing severe economic disruptions caused by the one-week shutdown that began January 26.

In a letter addressed to the governor, ACCI President Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, emphasized that Onitsha Main Market is a critical commercial hub serving millions of traders, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and consumers across Nigeria, particularly in Abuja, Lagos, and other major cities.

“The temporary closure, though intended to enforce compliance with the Monday sit-at-home directive, has triggered immediate hardships for thousands of traders and their families,” Obegolu wrote.

“Many of these businesses operate on thin margins and lack alternative income sources. Disrupted supply chains and potential spoilage of perishables are already affecting both local and interstate trade.”

The Monday sit-at-home, a weekly practice observed by some groups, has long posed challenges to business continuity in Anambra State. While Governor Soludo’s directive aims to enforce compliance and ensure public order, the ACCI argues that a balance must be struck to protect livelihoods and regional economic stability.

The chamber proposed several measures in its appeal, including early or phased reopening of Onitsha Main Market, contingent on verifiable commitments from market unions to operate fully on Mondays and other business days; collaborative dialogue involving government representatives, market unions, security agencies, and private sector stakeholders to implement security and incentive measures for traders; and support mechanisms such as short-term relief or low-interest credit facilities for traders affected by the shutdown.

Chief Obegolu added, “We stand ready to facilitate discussions and leverage our experience in public-private partnerships to ensure that Onitsha Main Market can operate safely, securely, and profitably. A balanced approach that safeguards law and order while supporting commerce is vital for the long-term growth of Anambra State and Nigeria’s economy as a whole.”