By Anthony Nwosu
A prominent Catholic priest and social commentator, Fr. Kevin Ugwu, has weighed into the ongoing controversy surrounding the sit-at-home practice in Anambra State, calling on Governor Chukwuma Soludo to adopt a more reflective and people-centred approach to the enforcement of Monday work activities.
Fr. Ugwu’s intervention comes amid renewed efforts by the Anambra State Government to compel civil servants, traders, and residents to resume normal economic activities on Mondays, following months of disruption linked to sit-at-home directives in the South-East.
Speaking through a public commentary titled “An Appeal to Soludo on Behalf of the Monday Men,” the cleric approached the issue from a historical and socio-religious perspective, arguing that rest days are social constructs that evolve over time and gain legitimacy through public acceptance.
According to Fr. Ugwu, the concept of rest days predates modern governance and has its roots in religious history. He traced Saturday as a rest day to Jewish tradition, anchored on the biblical account of creation and later reinforced by the Ten Commandments. He noted that Sabbath observance became a defining feature of Jewish identity, especially during the Babylonian exile.
He further explained that Sunday later emerged as a rest day following the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the practice of early Christians who gathered on the first day of the week. Over time, both days became institutionalised globally, despite initial resistance and disagreement.
“Rest days were created by people to meet human needs,” he noted, adding that no group or tradition holds exclusive authority over defining when societies should rest.
Fr. Ugwu observed that in Eastern Nigeria, Monday has gradually taken on the character of a rest day due to prolonged sit-at-home observance. While acknowledging that the origin of the practice is controversial, he argued that its continued observance has moved beyond fear and now reflects a social habit among many residents.
He cited the emergence of informal leisure groups, including associations popularly referred to as “Monday Men,” as evidence that many people now use Mondays for rest, social interaction, and relaxation.
Governor Soludo has repeatedly expressed concern over the economic losses associated with Monday shutdowns, describing them as a major setback to productivity, internally generated revenue, and public confidence. The state government maintains that enforcing work on Mondays is essential to restoring economic stability and asserting the authority of the state.
While clarifying that he was not opposed to the governor’s economic recovery agenda, Fr. Ugwu urged the government to consider the human and social dimensions of the issue. He warned that excessive emphasis on enforcement without addressing underlying social realities could prove counterproductive.
“We work too much and often do not enjoy the fruits of our labour,” he said, suggesting that governance should factor in the well-being and psychology of the people.
Reactions to the cleric’s comments have been mixed. Some residents see his position as a realistic acknowledgment of social behaviour, while others argue that institutionalising Monday rest could legitimise lawlessness and deepen economic hardship.
As the debate continues, Fr. Ugwu’s intervention has added a new dimension to the conversation, shifting focus from security and enforcement to history, culture, and human needs. Whether the Anambra State Government will adjust its strategy remains to be seen, but the discussion has once again highlighted the challenges of balancing authority, economic imperatives, and public sentiment in the South-East.
