The Anambra State Government has ordered the closure of the Nnewi Auto Spare Parts Market, Nkwo in the commercial city of Nnewi for one week.
The decision followed traders’ failure to comply with the state government’s directive to disregard the Monday sit-at-home order.
The order was handed down on Monday during an on-site visit to the market by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade and Markets, Chief Evarist Uba.
Uba was accompanied by the Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor; the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, AVM Ben Chiobi (Rtd); and the Chairman of Nnewi Local Government Area, Echezona Anazodo.
According to Uba, the directive was issued on behalf of the state governor, Chukwuma Soludo. He warned that the market could face further closure if compliance does not improve by next Monday when it is scheduled to reopen.
He said that despite repeated warnings, assurances of enhanced security, and appeals to reclaim public spaces, many traders at the busy market kept their stalls locked.
“The Anambra State Government hereby informs the general public that the Nnewi Auto Spare Parts Association Market, Nkwo Nnewi, is closed for business,” Uba said.
He stated that the closure takes effect from midnight on Monday, February 23, 2026, and the market will reopen on Monday, March 2, 2026.
“The closure of the market followed low compliance with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s order to end Monday sit-at-home in Anambra State.
“Traders and customers are advised to avoid the market until next Monday to avoid issues with law enforcement agents.
“The market may face further closure if compliance is not substantial by next Monday, when the market reopens,” he added.
Meanwhile, normal activities have gradually resumed across the state on Mondays following the governor’s directive issued in late January 2026.
It would be recalled that on January 26, the governor ordered the closure of the Onitsha Main Market for one week over similar non-compliance with the sit-at-home directive.
