Biafra Government in Exile Defends Traders After Onitsha Market Closure Sparks Dispute

The leadership of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE) sharply criticised the recent temporary shutdown of the Onitsha Main Market ordered by Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo, insisting that traders have the right to choose whether to honour sit‑at‑home directives.

Governor Soludo had directed that the sprawling commercial hub be closed for a week after many business owners again kept their shops shut on Mondays in line with long‑standing sit‑at‑home calls. The governor argued that the weekly inactivity has hurt the state’s economy and must end.

In response, the BRGIE condemned the closure as an unfair penalty on traders, saying people should be free to decide whether to observe sit‑at‑home orders without government reprisal. The group framed the practice as peaceful civil action rather than coercion.

This dispute comes amid wider tensions, as other groups linked to the sit‑at‑home tradition have announced plans for further regional observances in solidarity with affected traders. Stakeholders on both sides continue to debate the best path forward to protect economic activity while respecting individuals’ rights to protest.