Residents and traders in Anambra State blocked the Onitsha Head Bridge in protest against Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s directive ordering the temporary closure of the Onitsha Main Market.
The demonstration, which caused major traffic disruption between Anambra and neighbouring Delta State, saw angry protesters barricade access points to the bridge while chanting solidarity songs and protest slogans.
Videos shared by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) showed crowds occupying the roadway and repeatedly shouting, “No way in, no way out. Onitsha to Asaba blocked. Stand till!”
While many protesters remained defiant, others were seen fleeing as the situation became tense.
The protest follows Governor Soludo’s order for a one-week shutdown of the Onitsha Main Market, a move authorities said was necessary for regulatory and administrative reasons.
However, traders affected by the closure reportedly poured into the streets carrying placards and chanting in opposition to the directive. Some protesters were also heard expressing support for the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
Among the slogans captured in circulating videos were “Soludo, we no go gree o” and “Say no to Monday.”
A trader who participated in the protest said the closure had pushed many families to the brink.
“This market is our only source of livelihood. Closing it without proper engagement is unfair. We are hungry, and we cannot keep quiet,” the trader told journalists.
Another protester added:
“They didn’t consult us before taking this decision. Blocking the bridge is the only way to make them hear our voice.”
The Onitsha Head Bridge is a major commercial artery linking Anambra State to Delta State, blockade significantly disrupted movement of people and goods in and out of the region.
As of the time of filing this report, security operatives had yet to issue an official statement on the protest.
More details later.
