Soludo Begins Onitsha Market Demolition Despite Court Order

On March 1, 2026, Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo initiated the demolition of Onitsha Main Market, defying a court order from the Anambra State High Court that had previously restrained any further action regarding the market. The court had directed the parties involved to maintain the status quo and await a hearing scheduled for March.

Traders have expressed their outrage, labeling Soludo's demolition order as inhumane and likely to cause significant hardship for those whose businesses cannot withstand the government's restructuring plans. A memo from the mayor of Onitsha indicated that traders were given a week's grace before the demolition commenced, which has raised alarms among top traders about Soludo's apparent disregard for the court order and the implications for the rule of law in Nigeria.

President Bola Tinubu's administration has also been noted in relation to the fundamental human rights concerns raised by this situation, highlighting the potential abuse of police and military roles in civil matters.