Enugu State Government Seals 106 Shops and 2 Banks for Allegedly Observing Sit-At-Home Order
The Enugu State government, under the leadership of Governor Peter Mbah, has taken action against businesses that allegedly adhered to the sit-at-home order imposed by a factional leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Simon Ekpa. As a result, a total of 106 shops and two banks were sealed by officials of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority.
According to a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the sealed businesses will remain closed for one week. After this period, the government will consider either reopening them under certain conditions or selling them off.
Onyia clarified that the governor's intention is not to punish businesses but to promote a spirit of 'no sit-at-home' among traders. In previous announcements, the government had directed business owners to operate on Mondays and all workdays, or risk having their premises sealed.
The sealing of the businesses, as described by Onyia, is not meant to be punitive, but rather to foster a sense of ownership culture among the people and combat the issue of illegal sit-at-home orders in the state.
The Enugu State Capital Development Authority (ECTDA) will commence the review process for reopening the sealed businesses on Friday, July 28, 2023, at 2pm.
Onyia emphasized that the government's task force would continue monitoring the markets to ensure compliance and prevent further disruptions caused by sit-at-home orders.
He concluded by stating, "We are taking action not to hinder economic growth but to address those who attempt to intimidate us. The process for reopening the sealed shops requires compliance with the necessary procedures."