Soludo to Market Traders: 'Get Ready to Lose Your Shops If You’re Not Ready to Open!'

Anambra State, Nigeria – In a bold move, Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo has responded firmly to the growing concerns and criticisms surrounding his plans to potentially close down certain markets in the state, including the controversial Anambra Market. 

The governor, who has been vocal about his vision to overhaul the state's infrastructure, emphasized that his actions are within the bounds of the law.
During a recent address, Soludo fired back at those questioning the legal basis for his proposed market closures.

"For those shouting 'show me the law where you can close our shops,' I want to say that they should be ready when I show it to them," Soludo declared. "I will also show them the law that empowers me to revoke that market and use it for whatever is better for the state."

The governor did not stop there. He asserted that the power to revoke the market space and reallocate it for other public purposes—such as a government facility or an annex for Agunechemba Security—rests squarely in his hands.

"I can revoke that market, pay compensation to people who have private structures there, and use it for even an annex of Agunechemba Security if I like," he added, stressing that his primary concern is the greater good of Anambra state.

The decision has sparked controversy among traders who have operated in the market for years. However, Governor Soludo made it clear that a recertification process will soon begin. He warned that those who are not prepared to open their shops within the next two weeks would risk losing their stalls.

"We will start recertification in the next two weeks. A lot of people want shops in that market, so if you are not ready to open shops, go elsewhere," Soludo remarked. "We will revoke your shops and give it to people who are willing to open."

The announcement has triggered mixed reactions across Anambra, with some residents supporting the governor’s stance, believing that such moves are necessary for the development of the state. Others, however, see it as a threat to their livelihoods and have called for more dialogue before any drastic actions are taken.

While Soludo’s statement makes clear his commitment to transforming Anambra, particularly in terms of improving security and infrastructure, it also highlights the tension between development goals and the practical needs of market traders.

As the deadline for recertification looms, all eyes will be on Anambra to see how this high-stakes issue unfolds.

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