According to a report by Channels Television, on Thursday, January 29, 2026, Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State delivered a firm ultimatum to traders who persist in shutting down major commercial hubs on Mondays. During a recent media briefing, the governor expressed the administration’s readiness to implement drastic measures against those hindering business operations in essential markets.
Governor Soludo emphasised that the continued Monday closures have transitioned from a sit-at-home protest into a calculated disruption that damages the local economy and the general well-being of the population.
He observed that while educational institutions, social gatherings, and general street commerce are active on Mondays, specific market authorities still keep their gates shut, leading to substantial financial setbacks.
The governor noted that the financial drain on the state is massive, affecting not just public revenue but also the daily income of vendors, labourers, and distributors who rely on a complete workweek to survive.
He pointed out that the government has exercised considerable patience over the years, seeking dialogue with market executives and even introducing amnesty initiatives for those previously involved in enforcing these shutdowns. However, certain groups continue to ignore legal mandates and stifle the state’s economic flow.
In response to this defiance, Soludo asserted that the state is prepared to utilise the full weight of the law. He said, “If push comes to shove, I will revoke ownership and rebuild the market.” He underscored that markets managed by the state must serve the collective good.
Consequently, merchants who refuse to follow the designated operating times face the possibility of having their shop licences cancelled and redistributed to individuals committed to active commerce.
Furthermore, the governor highlighted that the updated Anambra trade schedule mandates that shops remain open throughout the week to sync the state’s financial activities with broader national and global business patterns.
He finished his address by calling for unity among all parties involved, reiterating that these steps are vital for safeguarding the state’s economic stability, public safety, and the prosperity of all residents. The administration remains focused on ensuring that Anambra’s trade centres function at full capacity to drive regional development.
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