PUNCH Online reports that Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, on Monday ordered the closure of the Onitsha Main Market for one week, citing continued observance of the sit-at-home declared by IPOB since July 30, 2021. The governor had said the sit-at-home was crippling the state’s economy and warned against further compliance with the order. However, traders at the market said the sit-at-home was in solidarity with the detained leader of IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, who is standing trial on charges related to separatist agitation. IPOB reiterated its demand for the unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu and accused the Anambra State Government of escalating tensions through what it described as economic intimidation of traders. The Anambra State Government has yet to respond to the latest declaration as of the time of filing this report.

Source: Punch January 31, 2026 05:51 UTC