The Nigerian Army’s 82 Division has publicly commended traders at the Onitsha Main Market for reopening their businesses, calling the move a bold rejection of years of intimidation by criminal elements enforcing sit-at-home orders in Anambra State.
In a statement issued by Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Olabisi Ayeni, the division praised the traders’ “courageous and patriotic” decision to resume normal commercial activities, framing it as a critical stand for peace and economic recovery in the South-East.
The region, particularly Anambra, has been plagued by recurring sit-at-home directives, often enforced by armed groups claiming to represent separatist interests. These orders have repeatedly shut down markets, paralyzed transportation, and stifled economic life, deepening hardship for residents and business owners.
The army’s statement directly condemned those behind the threats, describing them as “criminal elements masquerading as freedom fighters” whose aim is to “instill fear, cripple commerce, destabilise communities, and erode confidence in government institutions.”
It affirmed that the security agencies have largely defused the threats, but noted that the traders' public return to business “has authenticated the giant strides by the security agencies.”
“By rejecting intimidation and resuming business, they have demonstrated resilience and a firm commitment to peace and progress,” the statement read.
The army also issued a stern warning to troublemakers, urging them to “lay down their arms, renounce violence, and embrace peace.” It vowed that “unrepentant criminals will face the full weight of the law,” adding that there would be “no hiding place” for them.
The reopening of the bustling Onitsha Main Market—a key commercial hub in the South-East—is seen as a significant psychological and economic boost. It reflects growing public fatigue with enforced lockdowns and aligns with increased assurances of safety from the Anambra State Government and security forces.
The 82 Division reiterated its commitment to protecting citizens and ensuring stability, calling on the public to disregard fear-inducing threats and support ongoing peace efforts.
The move by Onitsha traders marks a potential turning point in community-led resistance against coercion, signaling a collective push to reclaim normalcy and safeguard livelihoods across the region.
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