Anambra State traders, particularly in Onitsha, the commercial hub of the state, defied Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s order to open their shops on Monday, in spite of the governor’s threat that businesses would be sealed off for non-compliance.

Meanwhile, in Onitsha, many businesses were shut down, but people were seen moving around the streets.

Our reporter observed that all major markets, including Onitsha Main Market, Ochanja Market, Head Bridge Market, and the Building Materials Market, were closed.

Security personnel, especially police patrols, were seen all over the city, enforcing law and order.

Some business owners accepted that they were hesitant to open their shops on the first day of the order, despite commending Governor Soludo’s efforts to restore Monday business activities in Anambra State.

Festus Okoli, a trader at the Main Market, said that there was more traffic on Mondays compared to previous weeks, but many people were still ignorant to open their businesses.

Also, a female trader who sells wrappers affirmed that she was aware of the governor’s directive, stating that it might take time for people to feel safe enough to return to the markets on Mondays.

The state governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, personally visited various markets and locations, including Nkwo Igbo-Ukwu, Afor Nnobi, parts of Nnewi, and Upper Iweka, to check if people were following the rules. While security was tight, he saw people walking around, even though many businesses were still closed.

During his visit, the governor talked to traders and residents, stressing how important it is to start doing business again while staying safe. He encouraged business owners to slowly start opening their businesses again and adhere to the government's directives.