Nigerian Army Vows Protection for Onitsha Traders as Market Reopens
The Nigerian Army's 82 Division has issued a firm reassurance to traders operating in Onitsha Main Market and throughout the South-east region, guaranteeing their safety as commercial activities resume following years of disruption. This significant announcement comes as security forces intensify operations against criminal elements linked to separatist groups in the area.
Army's Comprehensive Security Commitment
In an official statement released on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, from Enugu, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 82 Division, declared that traders and law-abiding citizens would receive maximum protection through all necessary security measures. The military spokesperson emphasized that security forces remain fully deployed and on high alert across the region, with intelligence-led operations actively targeting remnants of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Traders Praised for Defying Intimidation
Lieutenant Colonel Ayeni specifically commended the courageous traders of Onitsha Main Market for their patriotic decision to reopen their businesses after years of compliance with IPOB's sit-at-home directives. He described this collective action as a bold stand for peace, security, and economic progress in Anambra State and the broader South-East region. According to the Army spokesperson, criminal elements had long instilled fear and undermined livelihoods through intimidation tactics, but the traders' resilience has validated the progress achieved by security agencies.
"By rejecting intimidation and resuming business, they have demonstrated resilience and a firm commitment to peace and progress," Ayeni stated, highlighting how this development represents a significant shift in community response to security challenges.
Clear Warning to Criminal Elements
The Army issued a stern warning to all criminal groups operating in the region, demanding they immediately:
- Lay down their arms
- Renounce violence completely
- Embrace peace initiatives
Ayeni stressed that unrepentant criminals would face the full weight of the law and the decisive force of security agencies, with no hiding place available to shield them from justice. He urged residents to continue their lawful activities without fear and to disregard false threats aimed at destabilizing communities, while encouraging the public to provide credible information on security threats to enable prompt action.
Government Collaboration and Market Reopening
Major-General Oluremi Fadairo, the General Officer Commanding the 82 Division and Commander of Joint Task-Force South-East OPERATION UDO KA, expressed appreciation for the political will demonstrated by the Anambra State Government. He noted that the government's collaboration with security agencies had been instrumental in restoring normalcy and strengthening public confidence, creating an enabling environment for commerce to thrive.
This development follows Governor Charles Soludo's earlier decision to order the closure of Onitsha Main Market approximately one week prior, after observing that shops remained shut in compliance with IPOB's sit-at-home directive. The market successfully reopened on Monday as traders collectively defied the illegal order and resumed business operations, marking a significant turning point in the region's economic recovery efforts.
Security Operations Intensify Across Region
The Nigerian Army has confirmed that security operations against IPOB and ESN elements continue to intensify throughout the South-east region. These coordinated efforts aim to dismantle criminal networks that have disrupted economic activities and threatened public safety through enforced sit-at-home orders and related violence. The military's assurance comes as part of broader initiatives to restore lasting peace and stability to the region while supporting economic revitalization.
