Sowore slams Soludo over Onitsha market closure, says repression won’t end political agitations

Former presidential candidate and activist, Omoyele Sowore, has faulted the Anambra State Government’s decision to shut down major markets in Onitsha, describing the move as ineffective and incapable of addressing the underlying political tensions in the Southeast.

Sowore, in a statement shared via his social media platforms, said the temporary closure of markets would neither silence public dissent nor halt the demand for justice and political accountability.

According to him, measures that rely on force or economic disruption often worsen agitation rather than resolve it.

He drew parallels with past government actions, referencing attempts in October 2025 to further detain the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

Sowore argued that such efforts, rather than weakening the agitation, only intensified calls for justice and amplified public resistance.

“Last October, when attempts were made to jail Mazi Nnamdi Kanu by any means, we raised urgent calls for Southeast leaders to take a stand. All we got was silence,” Sowore stated.

“Many assumed imprisoning @nnamdikanu would end the agitation for Biafra. Today, they know better. Repression never defeats a just cause.”

He further criticized Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, insisting that economic shutdowns cannot suppress legitimate grievances.

“As for Anambra Governor @CCSoludo, he can shut down every market, but nothing will change until justice is done,” Sowore added.

Governor Soludo had ordered the temporary closure of markets in the Onitsha axis as part of efforts to enforce compliance with state directives and curb sit-at-home activities that have continued to disrupt commercial life in the region.

The state government maintains that the measure is necessary to restore order, protect businesses, and discourage unlawful shutdowns.

However, Sowore’s remarks have added to the growing debate over the effectiveness of force-based policies in addressing political unrest, with critics calling for dialogue, justice, and inclusive leadership as more sustainable solutions to the region’s challenges.