In major markets and cities in southeastern Nigeria, economic activities were/are grounded as a result of the sit-at-home order issued by pro-Biafra groups to mark the 50 years anniversary of the shortlived republic.
Reports coming from Onitsha and Nnewi – both in Anambra State, as well as from Aba in Abia State and Owerri in Imo State, speak of deserted markets and skeletal movements on the streets.
“The market gates are open but there is no single trader in sight,” reports from Onitsha around 10:30 a.m. say, “security men at the markets said they were ordered by the State Government to open the gates but the traders on their own refused to show up.”
Reports noted that “soldiers and battle-ready policemen are on the streets but they have nobody to shoot at as the streets are deserted by the people.”
A trader who operates from Ahia Ohu (New Market (Aba) told reporters that the traders took a decision to observe the sit-at-home order this morning while those who must trade today could do so later in the day.