Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
Major streets and markets in Anambra State were deserted on Monday as residents ignored a sit-at-home threat issued by Governor Chukwuma Soludo of the state.
It would be recalled that Soludo, while addressing traders at Onitsha Main Market penultimate Monday threatened to seal markets and shops if they continue to observe sit-at-home in the state.
Soludo, during the inspection visit, also said he would be visiting markets every Monday to inspect business activities.
He also emphasised that any shop or plaza that does not open on Mondays henceforth because of sit-at-home, would be sealed for one week, or even up to one month, as the case may be.
However, Ikengaonline correspondent in Awka observed that economic activities were shut down in the State capital including Onitsha as major roads and streets were deserted.
Shops, filling stations and banks were under lock and key and school children were turned back in their school.
“All the children who went to school on Monday were asked to go back following the sit-at-home order,” a resident told the reporter.
Okey Madu, who runs a provision store, said he decided not to open the shop because of the fear of being attacked.
Another resident, Catherine Nwosu, accused the government of not providing adequate security while ordering the public to go about their businesses.
“People were being apprehensive considering the series of attacks recently. The government refused to provide adequate security to boost confidence to operate without fear,” she said.
