Nigerian Army Assures Onitsha Main Market Traders of Safety as Businesses Reopen
The Nigerian Army has assured traders at the Onitsha Main Market of their safety and security, commending them for what it described as a courageous and patriotic decision to resume business activities after years of disruptions caused by security threats.
In a statement issued by the Headquarters, 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, the Army praised the traders for standing firm against intimidation by criminal elements whose actions had previously crippled commercial activities and undermined livelihoods in Anambra State and the wider South-East region.
According to the Army, the reopening of the market is a strong affirmation of the significant gains recorded by security agencies in neutralising threats posed by criminal groups masquerading as freedom fighters.
The development, it said, reflects renewed confidence in government institutions and ongoing security operations.
The Army assured all stakeholders that robust security measures are in place to protect Onitsha Main Market and other economic centres across the region.
It disclosed that security forces remain fully deployed and on high alert, while intelligence-led kinetic operations continue to dismantle the remaining elements of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
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“The safety of lives and property of traders and all law-abiding citizens remains our highest priority,” the statement said, urging residents to go about their lawful activities without fear and to disregard what it described as false and empty threats.
The Army also warned criminal elements to lay down their arms and embrace peace, stressing that unrepentant individuals would face the full weight of the law. It reiterated that no individual or group would be allowed to undermine the economic prosperity and stability of the South-East.
The Division reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with civil authorities, traditional institutions and other security agencies to ensure lasting peace and security in Anambra State. Members of the public were encouraged to provide credible intelligence to security agencies for prompt action.
Meanwhile, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA, Major General Oluremi Fadairo, commended the Anambra State Government for its political will and sustained support.
He noted that the collaboration between the state government and security agencies has been instrumental in restoring normalcy and creating an enabling environment for commerce to thrive.
The statement was signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division, Nigerian Army.
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