Sachet Alcohol Saga: Protesters Flood National Assembly In Outcry

Sachet Alcohol Saga: Protesters Flood National Assembly In Outcry

Civil society organizations, under the banner of the Coalition Against Economic Saboteurs, took to the streets in protest at the National Assembly, denouncing the recent ban imposed by the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on sachet alcoholic beverages….READ MORE Protesters Storm National Assembly Over Kaduna Village Bombing

In a display of dissent, protestors brandished placards emblazoned with the poignant message, ‘Let The Poor Live,’ signaling their staunch opposition to the prohibition.

Adam Matazu, representing the coalition, lambasted NAFDAC’s decision, singling out the agency’s Director-General, Prof. Moji Adeyeye, for what he labeled as “anti-people policies.”

The demonstrators demanded Prof. Adeyeye’s immediate removal, accusing her of enforcing measures that could detrimentally impact the less privileged and the nation’s economic fabric.

The groups argue that the ban on sachet alcohol could precipitate dire economic repercussions, potentially resulting in widespread layoffs and the shuttering of industries engaged in its production.

Furthermore, the protestors leveled allegations against multinational corporations, alleging collusion with Prof. Adeyeye to undermine local businesses and manufacturers.

Matazu vehemently declared, “Today, we confront a grave issue—the recent decision by Prof. Moji Adeyeye to outlaw the sale of beverages in small sachets. This policy directly threatens the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians, exacerbating unemployment and insecurity.”

“NAFDAC’s leadership has abandoned its core duty of tackling genuine threats like counterfeit drugs, instead opting to target a sector that sustains numerous livelihoods,” he added.

Ben Omale echoed Matazu’s sentiments, calling for united action against Adeyeye’s leadership. “We demand her immediate suspension to prevent further economic harm,” he emphasized.

NAFDAC’s directive, announced on Monday, sparked nationwide enforcement actions, drawing criticism from various quarters over its potential impact on employment and economic stability.