Why Many South-East Residents Still Keep Businesses Closed on Mondays

Although security conditions in the South-East have generally improved after years of severe unrest, a number of commercial hubs in the region still remain largely shut on Mondays. Many traders keep their shops locked, and even when some open, activity is minimal.

In major business centres such as Aba, Okigwe, Onitsha, Nnewi, and several emerging towns, Mondays continue to witness low economic activity, with some shops only opening from midday. However, state capital cities now experience normal business and social routines.

Speaking with SEV, residents shared reasons for this lingering culture. Communities in Imo State that were recently freed from criminal groups are slowly trying to adjust after enduring what many describe as “hellish” experiences.

While the previously crippling illegal sit-at-home order has eased significantly in Owerri, the state capital, one major institution remains affected — the Court of Appeal in the city still shuts down every Monday.

According to a source at the court, the continued closure stems from a traumatic incident involving the abduction of a Justice’s driver several years ago. The driver has not returned, and the vehicle involved has never been recovered.

“To us, it is a sad but unavoidable decision. About four years ago, a driver attached to one of the Justices was kidnapped by unknown gunmen. As I speak to you, the driver has not regained his freedom, and the vehicle is still missing.

“So, from what happened to us, our decision can be considered justifiable, especially since we all agree that life is precious and cannot be replaced.

“It is clear that the family of the kidnapped driver continues to bear the pain of his disappearance,” the source told SEV.

When SEV approached a prominent figure from the Orlu zone about the situation in Orsu and Orlu LGAs — areas widely considered hotspots during the height of insecurity — he responded briefly: “I will advise you to leave the matter for now because the places you mentioned are being precautionary. The problem will disappear the same way it came.”

However, a resident from the Okigwe area, Mr. Chidiebere Ike Nwokike, shared a more cautious view: “We are still being very careful in our area, because the times are bad. We are cautious and watch the situation every Monday before coming out.

“We have had more than our fair share of bloodshed in Okigwe, Ihube, and nearby communities. It is far better to imagine what we have been passing through than to experience it. Virtually all our prominent personalities in our communities no longer visit their ancestral homes. The serious depletion of the population in our communities has affected commerce.

“One basic fact of life is that no sane person fights with an armed, disillusioned, brainwashed, or drug addict. If I must stay at home on Mondays to remain alive, why not? There is no guarantee that business will thrive on any Monday. So, it is better to apply caution at all times.”

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