by Zainab Imam
The Anambra State Government has said it will begin serious enforcement of its decision to end the Monday sit-at-home across the state, as authorities insist that fear-induced shutdowns are crippling economic and social life.
The position of the government, under Governor Chukwuma Soludo, was conveyed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor.
Mefor said Anambra could not make meaningful progress if residents were unable to come out every Monday because of fear.
“I know that it will not be easy to enforce, and yes, some people may resist, but I feel strongly that this is a step towards progress,” the commissioner said.
He urged residents not to see the enforcement as punishment.
“This is not punishment but a call to reclaim our Mondays, our markets and our productivity,” Mefor added.
How the Sit-at-Home Began
The Monday sit-at-home was imposed in July 2021 by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) following the re-arrest of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
Although IPOB later announced that it had withdrawn the sit-at-home directive, the practice has continued in Anambra and other parts of the South-East.
Some breakaway factions have insisted that the sit-at-home would remain in place until Kanu is released, despite the group’s official position.
Economic Impact and Enforcement
Anambra is a major commercial hub in the South-East, with key markets in Onitsha and Nnewi. The continued Monday shutdown has resulted in significant losses for traders, transporters, schools and financial institutions.
The state government says enforcement of the end to sit-at-home is necessary to restore confidence, revive economic activities and protect livelihoods.
While full operational details have not been disclosed, authorities say security agencies will support lawful businesses and residents who choose to go about their normal activities on Mondays.
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