Onitsha markets shut as anxiety grips residents

From MANUEL UZOR, Onitsha

The only thing that could be used to describe the level of anxiety and rush in the commercial city of Onitsha ahead of today’s election is December 24 when everybody is always in a haste to buy things for Christmas.

This was the mood of the residents and traders in the commercial city of Onitsha yesterday when they trooped out in their thousands, scampering to find their way to the main market and other major markets across the city.

The Chairman, Amalgamated Traders Association, Chief Okwudili Ezenwankwo  disclosed that the main market and other major markets within Onitsha will be closed today to allow traders and residents to participate fully in the election.

He attributed the rush to the fact that traders and their customers wanted to buy all they need that can sustain them till Monday after the election, adding that the traders in the state have been sensitized properly to be part of the transition and to exercise their franchise without any hindrance.

The chairman further disclosed that traders across the state have been educated on how to conduct themselves during and after the election, noting that the markets were shut down to afford them the opportunity to go to their various villages and polling units to cast their votes.

One of the traders, Peter Igwe said the rush was caused by the proposed closure of the market which he said made traders to go back to their shops as if it was their last day on earth.

However, security has been beefed up in various streets and major roads within the city. Policemen from various state police commands, including Osun and Kwara states, have been deployed to the city to ensure adequate protection of lives and property.

The presence of the policemen in various strategic places within the city also heightened fears among residents of the city.

Some school children were seen going home before the normal closing hour, with their teachers also rushing home in droves.