Amid rising tension over the temporary closure of Onitsha Main Market, the Association of Non-Indigenes Welfare in Anambra State (ANISA/ANIAS) has called on members to be law-abiding.
In a statement on Wednesday, ANIAS urged its members to allow dialogue and government intervention to resolve the situation peacefully.
Signed by its President-General, Chief Great Ugwuoke, the organization appreciated the efforts by the government to find an amicable and lasting solution to the issue.
Ugwuoke said the Soludo administration was working to address broader security and economic challenges confronting the state, including the cumulative impact of the five-year Monday “sit-at-home” order linked to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
He urged non-indigenes resident in the area — particularly traders, professionals and civil servants to remain law-abiding and patient while the government pursues peace under the rule of law.
According to him, the temporary closure of Onitsha Main Market would soon be resolved in the collective interest of traders, non-traders, indigenes and non-indigenes alike.
Warning against unlawful acts
Ugwuoke cautioned that anyone who violates state laws or flouts the governor’s directives should be prepared to face the consequences, noting that lawlessness could undermine peace and progress.
He further advised non-indigenes against participating in protests, demonstrations or any form of unrest linked to the market closure or similar actions elsewhere in the state, warning that such activities could threaten public safety.
The ANIAS president stressed that dialogue and lawful engagement remain the most credible pathways to resolving disagreements.
He urged non-indigenes in Anambra State to continue respecting the laws of the state, complying with government policies and contributing positively to peace, stability and development.
