NIGERIA TV INFO – BREAKING NEWS

Tension Erupts at Onitsha Main Market Over Government Shutdown

Tension rose sharply at the Onitsha Main Market in Anambra State on Tuesday as traders and residents protested the state government’s decision to shut down the market for one week over alleged non-compliance with the sit-at-home order.

The protest followed Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s directive to close the busy commercial hub after authorities claimed that traders had defied instructions aimed at ending the enforcement of sit-at-home practices in the area. Early Tuesday morning, security operatives were deployed to the market, sealing all entrances and effectively bringing trading activities to a standstill.

Despite a heavy security presence, groups of aggrieved traders and sympathizers gathered around the market vicinity to express their displeasure over the shutdown. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots in the area, a development that heightened fear and tension, although it did not immediately disperse the crowd.

Demonstrators were seen chanting solidarity songs and expressing support for the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu. Chants of “Holy, Holy, Holy” and “Nnamdi Kanu is another saviour” echoed through parts of the area as protesters voiced their frustration.

As of the time of filing this report, there were no confirmed reports of casualties, while security forces continued to monitor the situation to prevent further escalation. Authorities have yet to issue an additional statement regarding the protests