Mr Afam Victor Ogene (LP–Anambra), representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has called on Gov. Chukwuma Soludo to reconsider the closure of Onitsha Main market and engage stakeholders to resolve the issue.
Ogene said the one-week closure, ordered after traders failed to open on Monday following the state government’s ban on sit-at-home activities, could worsen hardship for thousands of traders and negatively affect the state’s economy.
The lawmaker, in a statement issued in Awka on Wednesday, called for dialogue with market leaders.
According to him, a diplomatic approach would better address the concerns and ensure compliance with government policy.
“The order has sparked public outcry and protests in Onitsha, leading to the shutdown of the city, a major commercial hub and transit point for the South-East and South-South regions.
“The state government should have undertaken broader sensitisation by engaging market leaders and business stakeholders before the ban.
“Such engagement would have helped highlight improvements in security and secure their buy-in, rather than announcing the decision abruptly,” he said.
“Available data indicate that the Onitsha market loses about N8 billion every Monday it remains closed.
“A week-long shutdown would pose severe consequences for traders and the state economy, particularly due to the presence of perishable goods,” he said.
Ogene said the market attracts traders from across West Africa.
He warned that a sudden closure could strand international visitors and could project a negative image at a time the government is seeking to attract foreign investment.
Ogene urged the governor to consult stakeholders comprehensively and consider a phased reopening ahead of the one-week period to minimise losses, social tension and anxiety in the state.
