Enugu warns against market closure over political rally

Enugu State authorities have issued a stern warning against market leaders who plan to shut down major markets to compel traders to attend a political rally. The rally, organized by the Enugu East Senatorial District, aims to garner support for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Peter Mbah ahead of the 2027 general elections.

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The attention of the Enugu State Government has been drawn to an alleged plan to shut markets in the state capital as a demonstration of solidarity with the Enugu East zonal rally to drum up support for His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and His Excellency, Governor Peter Mbah, ahead of the 2027 general election.

The state government, through Commissioner for Information and Communication Dr. Malachy Agbo, declared that any market leader enforcing closure for the solidarity rally would face sanctions. The government emphasized that such actions are inconsistent with its economic agenda and policies that prohibit disruptions to commercial activities. While appreciating the traders' goodwill, the administration will not tolerate actions that undermine economic activities or infringe on citizens' rights.

Agbo stated that closing markets contradicts Governor Mbah's vision for economic transformation, which includes growing the state's economy and attracting investment. He also referenced the administration's ban on illegal sit-at-home orders, highlighting a commitment to maintaining economic stability. The government reminded political actors and market leaders that participation in political activities is a personal choice protected by the constitution.

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While the government appreciates the enormous demonstration of goodwill by traders across the state, it frowns, however, at any attempt by any market leader to shut down major markets in the Enugu East Senatorial District on account of the planned rally.

The statement underscored that the 1999 Constitution guarantees freedom of association and assembly. Therefore, no action should detract from these rights, and political participation must be voluntary, without denying citizens access to markets or public spaces where they earn their livelihoods.

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This is not only contrary to the administration’s vision and drive to grow Enugu State’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion, and also to position the state as the preferred destination for investment, business, tourism and living, but also the decision of the administration to ban illegal sit-at-home effective June 5, 2023.