Enugu warns against shutting markets for Tinubu, Mbah rally

Enugu State Government has issued a stern warning against market leaders planning to shut down major markets in the state capital to enforce attendance at a political rally. The government declared that any forced closure will result in severe sanctions, following reports of such a plan by some market association executives.

“

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 rally, organized by the Enugu East Senatorial District, is intended to build support for the re-election campaigns of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Peter Mbah ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, the state government, in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Dr. Malachy Agbo, distanced itself from the planned shutdown.

“

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.

Dr. Agbo emphasized that the move directly opposes the administration's economic development initiatives and its policy against disrupting commercial activities. He stated that while the government appreciates the goodwill of traders, it will not tolerate actions that undermine the state's economic targets or infringe upon citizens' rights. "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... but also contrary to the administration’s decision to ban illegal sit-at-home," the commissioner noted.

“

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 to position the state as the preferred destination for investment, business, tourism and living, but also contrary to the administration’s decision to ban illegal sit-at-home effective June 5, 2023.

The government reminded political actors and market authorities that participation in rallies must be voluntary, invoking constitutional provisions guaranteeing freedom of association and assembly. It stressed that public spaces should not be used for political coercion, particularly in light of the administration's efforts to boost the state's economy and ban illegal sit-at-home orders.

“

Furthermore, the 1999 Constitution (as amended) guarantees freedom of association and assembly. Thus, nothing should be seen to detract from these rights in this or future rallies by any