By Chuks Collins,
Awka
For the second time in less than four weeks, the Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo has ordered the closure of another prominent market in the state.
The unfortunate market -New Auto Spare Parts Association (NASPA) Market, Nkwo Nnewi, was closed down over what the state government described as “low compliance” of the order to end Monday sit-at-home order of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)
The state Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, in a statement earlier on Monday, 23 February, 2026, said the Nnewi market closure, which takes effect from midnight, 23 February, 2026, will be lifted next Monday, 2 March, 2026.
He advised traders and customers to steer clear of the market during the closure period.
He warned that the market may face further closure and other sanctions if compliance was not substantial at the expiration of the closure date.
The government statement read in part, “Anambra State Government hereby informs the general public that the New Auto Spare Parts Association (NASPA) Market, Nkwo Nnewi, is closed for business.
“The market, whose date of closure is effective from midnight today, Monday, 23rd February, 2026, will reopen next Monday, 2nd March, 2026.
“The Nnewi market closure followed low compliance with Mr Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s order to end Monday sit-at-home in Anambra State.
“The order to close the market was handed down on behalf of the governor by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade and Markets, Chief Evarist Uba, in the company of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, AVM Ben Chiobi (Rtd), and the Nnewi Mayor, Hon. Echezona Anazodo.
“Traders and customers are advised to avoid the market until next Monday to prevent issues with law enforcement agents.
“The market may face further closure if compliance is not substantial by next Monday, when the market reopens.
“Meanwhile, normal activities have resumed in Anambra State on Mondays following the governor’s order in late January 2026.”
