Praise Onitsha vendors for their nonviolent behavior
- Request that the government and traders give priority to communication
Written by Chimaobi Nwaiwu
The Anambra State Government and vendors in Onitsha Main Market and other impacted markets have been urged by the United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide to continue discussions in order to eventually reopen the marketplaces that Governor Chukwuma Soludo shuttered.
UNIEC highlighted that peace, not turmoil, is needed in Onitsha—the commercial capital of Anambra State—and across the South East to consolidate the improved security situation currently being experienced in the region.
Therefore, in response to Governor Soludo’s temporary shutdown of Onitsha Main Market, the elders demanded an immediate end to miscommunication and retaliation, stating that the only way forward is via constructive conversation.
In a statement titled “UNIEC Worldwide Affirms Its Support for Peace in Onitsha and Other Parts of Anambra State,” which was signed by its Director General, His Lordship Justice Alpha Ikpeama, and National Director of Media and Publicity, Prof. Obasi Igwe, the organization expressed gratitude for the composure and moderation shown by vendors and other stakeholders since the market was closed.
The statement stated: “The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide affirms its firm support for stability and constructive engagement in Onitsha and other parts of Anambra State over the closure of Onitsha Main Market by the Anambra State Government, acting in continuity with the long-established tradition of Igbo elders intervening at moments of communal strain to preserve peace, dialogue, and social cohesion.”
UNIEC praised the people of Anambra State, especially the Onitsha traders and stakeholders, for their nonviolent reaction to the government’s measures, the market closure, and the monthly Monday sit-at-home observance.
The elders pointed out that these issues are not new causes of conflict in Igbo communal life and have traditionally been settled by negotiation, respect for one another, and consultation. They emphasized that the problems are neither intractable nor incapable of being resolved peacefully, and they must not be let to worsen into conflicts that could jeopardize public order, economic activity, or social harmony.
“UNIEC warns against any form of internal discord and reiterates that peaceful dialogue and restraint remain the most credible and enduring pathways to resolving differences at this critical period in Igbo history, when unity, calm, and collective focus are indispensable,” the statement continued.
In order to promote de-escalation, reconciliation, and the swift restoration of peace and normalcy, the Council promised to keep supporting engagement among parties. It affirmed that it has already communicated with pertinent parties and will step up its efforts until a fair, just, and long-lasting solution is reached.
Therefore, in the overarching interest of peace, unity, economic stability, and the shared destiny of Ndi Igbo and Anambra State in particular, UNIEC urged all parties to exhibit caution, give priority to discussion, and fully engage with mediation efforts.
