The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, on Thursday led a coordinated security deployment at the Onitsha Main Market to enforce the one-week closure ordered by Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
Governor Soludo had directed the temporary closure of the market on Monday following traders’ alleged failure to comply with the state government’s instruction to disregard the weekly Monday sit-at-home order.
The directive was issued during an on-the-spot assessment of the market by the governor, accompanied by top government officials.
In compliance with the order, security agencies on Tuesday barricaded the market, deploying hundreds of personnel to the area. Armoured personnel carriers and patrol vehicles were positioned at strategic locations to restrict access and prevent entry into the market.
Security operatives barred traders and members of the public from entering the market, enforcing the shutdown as directed.
The closure sparked protests by some traders and residents, who on Wednesday blocked the ever-busy Asaba–Onitsha Expressway leading to the River Niger Bridge for several minutes, causing traffic disruption before security operatives intervened and dispersed the protesters.
Speaking during a reinforcement exercise at the market on Thursday, CP Orutugu said his presence was aimed at strengthening public order, safety, and confidence across Onitsha and its surrounding areas.
He explained that the visit was part of a security assessment tour to personally supervise and evaluate the deployment of police-led joint security forces at key locations within the city.
“This is a security assessment tour to personally supervise and evaluate the deployment of police-led joint security forces at strategic locations within Onitsha,” Orutugu said.
“This proactive engagement underscores the Command’s resolve to maintain peace, ensure compliance with lawful directives, and prevent any breach of public order.
“The security situation in Onitsha remains calm and firmly under control, and we continue to reassure residents, traders, and commuters of their safety,” he added.
As the one-week closure entered its second day, police operatives on Wednesday also blocked and dispersed protesters who attempted to disrupt traffic at the Onitsha Head Bridge in protest against the market shutdown.
Despite pockets of resistance, security agencies maintained their presence and control, ensuring compliance with the governor’s directive and restoring calm to the area.
