Traders in Onitsha Main Market have reopened their shops, with about 70% resuming business after the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) lifted the weekly Monday sit-at-home directive. The move follows a statement from IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, calling for normal economic activities to resume. Markets surrounding Onitsha Main Market, including Sokoto Road Market and Marine Market, also reopened but witnessed scant customer patronage.

Customer turnout remains low, especially from outside Anambra State, due to lingering fear of attacks by hoodlums who previously enforced the sit-at-home order. Traders are hopeful but urge ways to encourage customers to return on Mondays. Governor Chukwuma Soludo had ordered the market’s closure last week, warning of further shutdowns if traders didn’t comply.