ANAMBRA, Nigeria — Stakeholders of Ogbaru Main Market (Relief) have announced that shops failing to open on Mondays will be sealed, marking the end of the long-standing Monday sit-at-home practice in the market.
The decision was disclosed by Chief Ndubuisi Ochiogu, President of the Ogbaru Main Market Traders Association, following a meeting of market stakeholders and chairmen of all market lines. Traders were advised to open their shops on Mondays to avoid sanctions, with security assured as no longer a valid excuse for absence.
Security and Patronage
Chief Ochiogu emphasized that security measures have been strengthened, citing the proximity of Okpoko Police Station and deployment of personnel from Operation Udo Ga Achi, the OCHA Brigade, the State Anti-Touting Squad (SASA), and market vigilantes.
He noted that although Monday patronage is lower than other trading days, traders in provisions, beverages, and other consumables still record significant sales from customers traveling from Onitsha, Ogidi, Nkpor, Obosi, and surrounding areas.
“Security of our lives, goods, and that of our customers is 100 percent guaranteed,” Ochiogu said.
Market Revival Efforts
The move is part of broader efforts to restore full commercial activities and reassure traders and buyers of safety in Ogbaru Main Market. The association stressed that Monday will now be treated as a regular trading day, signaling a shift in the market culture and boosting economic activity in the area.
