THE Anambra State Government has ordered the temporary closure of the New Auto Spare Parts Association (NASPA) Market in Nkwo Nnewi for one week, citing poor compliance with directives to end the Monday sit-at-home in the state.
According to a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, the market was shut from midnight today, February 23, 2026, and will remain closed until Monday, March 2, 2026.
The government warned that the market could face additional sanctions if traders fail to comply fully with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s directive suspending the sit-at-home practice.
The closure order was conveyed on behalf of the governor by the Special Adviser on Trade and Markets, Chief Evarist Uba, alongside Law Mefor, Special Adviser on Security AVM Ben Chiobi (Rtd), and Nnewi Mayor Echezona Anazodo.
Authorities advised traders and customers to stay away from the market until it officially reopens to avoid possible enforcement actions.
The state government maintained that normal activities have resumed across Anambra on Mondays following the governor’s renewed enforcement efforts in late January 2026.
Onitsha Main Market Previously Shut
Earlier in January, Governor Soludo directed the immediate shutdown of the Onitsha Main Market and adjoining markets for one week as part of moves to enforce compliance with the anti–sit-at-home directive.
During a visit to the market, Soludo stressed that his administration would not tolerate actions that undermine public safety or disrupt economic activities.
He warned that shops that failed to open for business on Mondays would be sealed for one week, adding that the state could not allow a culture of economic sabotage to persist. The market was later reopened after the enforcement period.
Recall that for several years, parts of Anambra State have observed a Monday sit-at-home, resulting in the closure of markets, schools, and businesses.
The practice, enforced by non-state actors in the South-East, has drawn criticism for its impact on economic productivity and public life.
In April 2022, Governor Soludo officially declared the sit-at-home over, offering amnesty to youths in hiding and proposing the formation of a peace and reconciliation committee.
However, compliance has remained inconsistent in some areas, prompting renewed enforcement measures by the state government.
