Chukwuma Soludo, governor of Anambra, ordered the temporary shutdown of the market after traders defied the state’s directive to ignore the longstanding Monday sit-at-home order enforced by the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Soludo issued the directive for the closure during an on-the-spot visit to the market, accompanied by senior officials and security operatives.

He warned that non-compliance could lead to longer closure or harsher measures.

The closure triggered a response from Emma Powerful, IPOB spokesperson, who declared a total lockdown across the south-east on February 2 in solidarity with the traders and as a protest against the market shutdown.

Powerful described the action as voluntary and peaceful, urging schools, banks, and other institutions to stay closed.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Law Mefor, commissioner for information in Anambra, confirmed that the one-week closure had expired over the weekend.

“This is to inform the general public that the closure of Onitsha Main Market, ordered by Mr Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, lapses this weekend,” the statement read.

“Accordingly, all traders are hereby directed to resume business as usual on Monday, February 2, 2026, as there is no longer any form of sit-at-home on Mondays in Anambra State.

“Ndị Anambra and residents are assured of adequate security and are encouraged to report any security concerns to 5111.

“Meanwhile, civil servants and teachers are reminded that the pro-rata salary system remains in force — no work on Monday, no pay.

“Parents are also advised to release their children for school on Mondays to avoid sanctions.”

The government urged residents to disregard threats from non-state actors, reaffirming its commitment to providing maximum security statewide.