Igbokwe: Leaders Are Clearly Supporting IPOB In Onitsha Market Shutdown

According to Ireporter Online, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Joe Igbokwe, has criticised the leadership of the Onitsha Main Market over the ongoing shutdown of commercial activities in the area, describing their actions as dangerous and counterproductive.

Tension has continued to mount in Onitsha following the decision of Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, to shut down the market after traders allegedly disregarded his directive to abandon the weekly Monday sit-at-home order. The enforcement of the closure has reportedly led to clashes between security operatives and protesting traders, while the governor has warned that the market could face demolition if compliance is not achieved by the next Monday.

Reacting to the situation, Igbokwe, in a post shared on his social media page, said the unfolding events point to internal support for criminal activities within the state. He alleged that the resistance to the reopening directive suggests that certain individuals in the state are aiding insecurity and undermining lawful authority in the South-East.

He noted that the governor’s position was clear, insisting that businesses must reopen or risk prolonged closure, stressing that Anambra, historically regarded as an economic backbone of the region, should not be held hostage by actions that threaten peace and stability.

Igbokwe further accused the market leadership of acting above the law, claiming their conduct gives the impression of alignment with separatist elements operating in the region. He warned that the state government and security agencies would not tolerate what he described as continued defiance and lawlessness.

The APC chieftain maintained that decisive measures were imminent to restore order, urging residents and traders to embrace peace and lawful conduct. He added that the South-East must be reclaimed from criminal influences and warned that those promoting unrest would ultimately face the consequences of their actions.