Traders and residents on Wednesday blocked the Onitsha Head Bridge in Anambra State to protest the shutdown of the Onitsha Main Market ordered by Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
Videos circulating on social media show scores of demonstrators occupying the bridge, a major entry and exit route into the state, as they expressed anger over the continued closure of the market. The footage was shared on Wednesday by media analyst Somto Okonkwo.
The protest followed tensions on Tuesday at the Onitsha Main Market, where traders reportedly clashed with security operatives after being denied access to their shops on the governor’s directive. The situation degenerated into chaos, with reports that security personnel fired gunshots to restore order.
Governor Soludo had earlier warned that the market would be shut down over the persistent observance of Monday sit-at-home protests in honour of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, who is currently in detention.
The bridge blockade caused disruption to traffic and heightened security presence in the area as authorities moved to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
Watch video:
https://x.com/i/status/2016467351995023537
