Tension gripped Onitsha, Anambra State, on Wednesday as protesters took to the streets and blocked the Onitsha Head Bridge, expressing outrage over Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s executive directive that led to the shutdown of the Onitsha Main Market.

The demonstrators, made up largely of traders and concerned residents, said the closure of the popular commercial hub has deepened economic hardship and disrupted livelihoods in the bustling riverine city. Chanting solidarity songs and wielding placards, the protesters accused the state government of failing to adequately consult stakeholders before enforcing the directive.

The blockage of the Onitsha Head Bridge, a critical link between Anambra and neighbouring states, caused heavy traffic congestion and stranded commuters for hours, raising security and economic concerns.

Some traders who spoke during the protest lamented that the market shutdown has crippled daily income for thousands of families who depend on the market for survival. They called on Governor Soludo to immediately reverse the decision or engage market leaders in dialogue to find a more sustainable solution.

Freedom Square TV gathered from investigations, as of the time of filing this report, security operatives were deployed to the area to maintain order and ease traffic, while efforts were reportedly underway to persuade the protesters to reopen the bridge.

The Anambra State Government has yet to issue an official statement on the protest, but residents remain on edge as the situation continues to unfold.