Calm is cautiously returning to Nigeria’s South-East as renewed economic and commercial activities emerge following Governor Chukwuma Soludo's efforts to dismantle the over four-year-old sit-at-home order. This order, which had effectively paralyzed commerce every Monday, is now seeing its impacts diminish as traders and schools begin to resume activities. The turning point in this resurgence was Soludo's controversial decision to close the Onitsha Main Market for a week, a bold move aimed at ending the cycle of enforcement and compliance related to the sit-at-home mandate.

In the wake of this closure, there has been a notable increase in market activity, with traders and civil servants tentatively reclaiming Mondays — a day previously marked by inactivity and fear. Transportation services are also starting to pick up, marking a significant shift in the regional economy. However, this rebound is not without its challenges; many residents remain apprehensive about the potential for violence as they navigate the uncertain transition towards full economic recovery.

Soludo's approach reflects a critical moment for the South-East, highlighting the need for a balance between ensuring security and reviving economic fortunes. The government's success in revitalizing commerce not only impacts local businesses but also reflects a broader desire for stability in a region that has faced various socio-economic challenges. As the South-East begins this journey towards renewal, the implications of these developments extend beyond just local commerce, affecting the overall perception of safety and governance in Nigeria's eastern states.