Security operatives on Tuesday barricaded major entrances to the Onitsha Main Market to enforce a one-week closure ordered by the Anambra State government, following traders’ refusal to comply with the sit-at-home directive.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo issued the closure order on Monday during an unscheduled visit to the market. Security personnel, including armoured personnel carriers and Hilux vans, were deployed to block key access points and patrol the area.

The state Commissioner for Information, Mr. Law Mefor, stated that the ongoing Monday sit-at-home costs the Anambra government about N8 billion weekly, and the South-East region N19.6 billion.

Traders were prevented from entering the market, with shops remaining closed. Many who arrived at the market were seen loitering and discussing the situation. Some traders, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed concerns that the week-long closure could endanger innocent citizens, urging the governor to reconsider.

The Anambra Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said security operatives remain committed to maintaining law and order, protecting lives and property. He added that the situation at the market was peaceful, with people moving about freely despite the restrictions.