NNEWI — Tension heightened in Onitsha on Sunday night following reports that suspected hoodlums placed a coffin in front of the “White House,” the administrative headquarters of the Onitsha Main Market, in what many traders believe is a warning against reopening the market on Monday, February 2, as directed by Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo.
The disturbing development has further fueled fear among traders, many of whom have already expressed reluctance to resume business amid prevailing insecurity. The coffin, reportedly discovered in front of the market chairman’s office, sent shockwaves through the trading community, with speculations that it was meant to intimidate market leadership and traders into defying the government’s directive.
Meanwhile, reports circulating widely on traders’ WhatsApp groups claim that the Chairman of Onitsha Main Market, Chijioke Okpalaugo, has allegedly resigned his position. Vanguard could not independently confirm the resignation as of press time. However, some traders insist the alleged decision may be linked to concerns over personal safety following the governor’s order to reopen the market.
According to traders, the coffin is a direct warning to prevent the chairman from opening the market, referencing the case of Francis Enibe, the Chairman of Mgbuka Amazu Market, Obosi, who was kidnapped on a Monday and has remained missing for over two years. Even security personnel guarding the “White House” reportedly could not explain how or when the coffin was placed there.
As of Monday morning, the usually busy Onitsha Main Market and its surroundings remained deserted, with no vehicular or human movement. Several traders said they chose to stay indoors, unwilling to risk their lives. One trader disclosed that he instructed his apprentices not to leave home to avoid any potential danger.
Traders are now calling on Governor Soludo to personally visit Onitsha and formally address them, insisting that only his physical presence and a ceremonial reopening of the market will restore confidence and encourage them to resume trading.
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