The Mayor, Hon Echezona Anazodo and some of Council officials
From David Onwuchekwa
Markets in Nnewi, Anambra State, were open on Monday, February 2, 2026, but business activities remained largely slow as few traders opened their shops amid an absence of customers.
Markets observed to be open included Nwagbara Market and the popular “machine parts” section known for motorcycle and motor spare parts dealers.
Other sections of Nkwo Nnewi Market that opened were the motor spare parts section, Odu Igbo section, grocery dealers, old motor spare parts, as well as building and textile materials sections.
The Executive Chairman of Nnewi North Local Government Area, Hon. Echezona Anazodo, visited parts of Nkwo Nnewi Market to assess compliance with Governor Charles Soludo’s directive that markets should operate fully on Mondays. He commended traders who opened their shops in obedience to the directive.
“I’m inside the market as you can see. There is adequate security stationed at strategic points. The Governor has put measures in place to ensure safety,” Anazodo said.
He urged Ndi Nnewi to put aside fear and resume their normal business activities, noting that market leaders present should serve as examples for others.
“You can see market leaders here with me. They should be emulated by other traders by coming to their shops on Mondays to carry out their business transactions,” the chairman added.
However, some traders who were seen relaxing at drinking joints around the streets expressed reluctance to open their shops, citing fear of possible attacks.
One of them said: “The Governor should come and drag me to the market. For me, there should be one hundred percent compliance with the sit-at-home because of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)’s recent threats that they would deal ruthlessly with anyone who disobeys their order.”
The traders said they were not convinced that the security presence would be sufficient to protect them in the event of an attack, insisting that they did not want to risk their lives in the name of doing business.
Meanwhile, groups of youths were seen in open spaces along the streets playing football and other games, while commercial activities remained standstill.
Banks, schools, other public and private offices remained closed.
