By Dennis Okechukwu
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has warned that the Onitsha Main Market could be converted into a school if traders continue to observe the sit-at-home order that keeps the market shut on Mondays.
Soludo issued the warning during an on-the-spot assessment of the market, where commercial activities were largely suspended despite repeated assurances by the state government on improved security across Anambra.
The governor lamented that the persistent closure of the market was inflicting severe economic damage on traders and the state at large, stressing that public facilities must be put to productive use.
According to him, the sit-at-home directive is not recognised by the Anambra State Government and should not be enforced by traders through fear or intimidation.
“If this market is not being used for trading, the government may be forced to put it to alternative use. I can convert this place into a school,” Soludo said.
He noted that markets are government-owned assets and warned that traders who abandon their shops risk losing their allocations.
The governor assured traders of enhanced security measures around major markets and commercial centres, urging them to resume normal business activities and reject what he described as self-imposed economic paralysis.
Soludo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring peace, safeguarding lives and property, and revitalising economic activities across the state.
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