By Karen James
In a bold and strategic move to revitalize Anambra State’s economy and strengthen security, the Anambra State Solution Marshal (ASSMAL) and the Anambra State Market Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA) have forged a groundbreaking collaboration aimed at ending the lingering Monday sit-at-home order imposed by non-state actors.
The high-level meeting, which took place at the ASMATA Headquarters in Onitsha on Monday, May 19, 2025, brought together key leadership from both organizations to chart a new course for the state’s commercial and civic life. The sit-at-home directive, which has crippled economic activities across the region for over three years, was at the heart of the discussion.
Leading the ASSMAL delegation were Hon. Celestine Anere, M.D Ocha Brigade/Field Marshal; Hon. Chief Sylvester Ikenna Ofodeme (Owelle Ichie), Majority Leader of the Anambra State House of Assembly and Marshal Superior; and Hon. Barr. T.N. Akpudo (Ichaka – Egbe Eji Gbu Agu), the State Marshal General (SMG) of ASSMAL.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Barr. Akpudo described the sit-at-home as a “cancerous menace” that has devastated the region’s economic and social fabric. “This directive has brought our businesses to a standstill, causing immense losses and hardship. It’s time we collectively rise to liberate our people from this imposed paralysis,” he said.
Adding a powerful voice, Hon. Chief Ofodeme condemned the criminal hijack of the once-symbolic directive, stating that it now serves no purpose but to perpetuate violence, fear, and economic stagnation. He decried the actions of those using the sit-at-home as a cover for criminality, including kidnapping and killings, which he said are detrimental to the Igbo cause.
He also lauded Governor Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, for his leadership in bolstering state security through the Agunechemba security outfit and advocating for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. “With strong policies and partnerships like this, the future of Anambra is one of security, commerce, and prosperity,” Ofodeme asserted.
Representing ASMATA, President General Chief Humphrey Anumudu (Ajilija – Onwa Oraeri) expressed full commitment to the collaboration. “We will do everything within our power to ensure that the Monday sit-at-home is permanently and peacefully brought to an end. The economic survival of our state depends on it,” he stated.
The meeting was attended by several prominent stakeholders, including Hon. Chief Chiejina Obieze (State Deputy Marshal General), Chief Emeka Mbagha (Osoma Nkpor), Hon. Emeka Okoye Ozo, Hon. Chief Uche Nwoye Oragwuncha (Isimili Ifitedunu), Ichie Ikechukwu Okeke (Ikemba Aguluezechukwu), Hon. Ikechukwu Oforkansi (Secretary General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Anambra State), as well as numerous market leaders and local government coordinators.
This landmark alliance signals a renewed determination among stakeholders to restore normalcy and economic vitality in Anambra. With concerted action and strong political will, Anambra State is poised to break free from the chains of fear and stagnation — and chart a path toward a safer, more prosperous future.
May Anambra State continue to rise.
