Onitsha Mkt Closure: Ndigbo n'Abuja commends Soludo as non indigenes comply with govt

By Okey Maduforo, Awka 

The Igbo Community in the Abuja Federal Capital Territory (FTC) has commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra state over his fight against economic sabotage occasioned by the Monday sit at home order by IPOB.

The Community however urged Soludo to tamper justice with mercy noting that the continue closure of the largest market in sub Saharan Africa may escalate to serious crisis which may overheat the polity and ultimately compromise the already peace being enjoyed in the state .

This is as the Association of Non-Indigenes in Anambra State (ANIAS), urged it's members residing and doing business in Anambra State to remain calm, law-abiding and respectful of constituted authority following the directive by Governor Soludo to lock down Onitsha Main Market for one week

According to the President of Igbo Community in Abuja, Engr Ikenna- Ellis Ezenekwe and the Secretary General Comrade Emmanuel Chinwoke Onah , though the move is proper , Soludo should also consider the threat to the peace in the state and review his stands .

"The Igbo Community Association, FCT, has issued a statement commending Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State for his efforts to address perceived economic sabotage in the state"

 "The association recognizes Governor Soludo's commitment to improving the economic well-being of Anambra State and his notable achievements in infrastructure development and policy implementation"

"We acknowledge Your Excellency's tireless efforts to drive development and progress in Anambra State," the statement read.

 "Your policies and infrastructural overhaul of Anambra State are second to none, and your pace of development outpaces all former governors without a doubt."

However, the Association emphasized that the voice of the people must be heard and respected, urging the governor to reopen markets closed due to protests.

 The markets, which have been a vital part of the community's economic and social fabric, have been shut down, causing hardship to traders and consumers alike.

"The people want their markets back; they belong to them," the statement read.

 "The people also want to use the markets to make whatever statements they choose, and as a true son of the soil, you must respect this."

The association noted with concern that the people of Onitsha are already taking to the streets in protest, and the situation is fast escalating. "We are worried that if the markets are not reopened immediately, the protests may lead to a breakdown in security, resulting in injury to innocent citizens and damage to property," the statement warned.

The association emphasized the importance of respecting democratic principles and the rights of citizens to express themselves freely. "As a pan-African leader, you must understand the need for citizens to make protest statements to power," the statement noted.

The Igbo Community Association, FCT, is calling on Governor Soludo to listen to the voices of his people and work towards a peaceful resolution to the current impasse. "We urge Your Excellency to act swiftly to address the concerns of the people and reopen the markets to avoid further escalation," the statement concluded.

"We want harmonious engagement, not brute force," the statement emphasized" the Community stated.

Non indigenes comply with Soludo's directive

The President of the Association of Non-Indigenes in Anambra State (ANIAS), Prince Chigozie Nweke, emphasized that while the temporary closure of the market may pose economic challenges, non-indigenes must conduct themselves responsibly and avoid actions capable of escalating tensions or disrupting public order.

He cautioned that anyone who goes against the laws of Anambra State or defies the directives of the state government would face the full consequences of the law and be brought to justice accordingly.

The ANIAS President specifically advised non-indigenes not to participate in any form of protest, demonstration or unrest in or around Onitsha Main Market concerning the market closure, stressing that such actions could jeopardize peace and security in the state.

Prince Nweke reaffirmed the association’s commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and cooperation with the Anambra State Government, noting that dialogue and lawful engagement remain the best channels for addressing grievances.

He urged all members of the association to continue to uphold the laws of the state, respect government policies, and contribute positively to the peace, stability and development of Anambra State.