Enugu Govt Cautions Against Market Shutdown Over APC Rally

The Enugu State Government has warned against alleged plans by some market leaders to shut down major markets within the state capital on Saturday for an All Progressives Congress (APC) rally in the state.

The government said the proposed shutdown was reportedly intended to show solidarity during a rally backing the re-election of Governor Peter Mbah and President Bola Tinubu.

The position of the government was contained in a statement issued on Friday in Enugu by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Dr Malachy Agbo.

It stated that such actions contradict the administration’s efforts to promote investment, business activities, and productivity in the state, adding that the government does not support any disruption of economic activities.

The statement urged residents to go about their lawful businesses, noting that the Mbah administration had, since June 5, 2023, taken steps to end the illegal Monday sit-at-home in order to boost economic activity.

It further stressed that political participation remains a constitutional right and must be exercised voluntarily without coercion or disruption of livelihoods.

“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 Tinubu and Mbah, ahead of the 2027 general election,” the statement said.

While acknowledging public support for government policies, the statement cautioned against any attempt to shut down markets in the state.

It added that the move runs contrary to the administration’s vision of growing Enugu’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion and positioning the state as a hub for investment, business, tourism, and living.

The government also referenced constitutional provisions guaranteeing freedom of association and assembly, insisting that such rights must not infringe on the economic activities of citizens.

“For emphasis, political participation should be voluntary and without any attempt to deny the people access to markets or other public spaces where they earn their daily living,” it said.

The statement warned that the government would not hesitate to impose sanctions on any individuals or groups found attempting to disrupt market operations.