A coalition of civil society groups protested at the National Assembly against the ban on sachet alcoholic beverages by the National Agency for Food And Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The protesters expressed concerns about the ban’s impact on the Nigerian economy and called for the removal of NAFDAC’s Director General, Prof. Moji Adeyeye. This article provides insights into the protest and the reasons behind it.
A recent ban on sachet alcoholic beverages by the National Agency for Food And Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has sparked protests at the National Assembly. A coalition of civil society groups, led by the Coalition Against Economic Saboteurs, gathered to express their opposition to the ban. The protesters raised concerns about the ban’s potential negative effects on the Nigerian economy and called for the removal of NAFDAC’s Director General, Prof. Moji Adeyeye. This article delves into the reasons behind the protest and the implications of the ban.
Reasons for the Protest:
1. Threat to Livelihoods: The protesters argue that the ban directly threatens the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians who are employed in the production and distribution of sachet alcoholic beverages .
2. Economic Impact: The ban could lead to the closure of industries producing these products, exacerbating existing economic problems in the country .
3. Alleged Anti-People Policies: The coalition accuses NAFDAC’s Director General, Prof. Moji Adeyeye, of implementing policies that favor multinationals and undermine small businesses and local production companies .
4. Shift in Focus: The protesters criticize NAFDAC’s shift in focus from combating fake and substandard drugs to targeting the sachet alcohol sector, which they believe serves the needs of millions of families and provides employment opportunities .
Calls for Action:
1. Removal of NAFDAC DG: The coalition demands the immediate sacking of Prof. Moji Adeyeye, citing her alleged anti-people policies and failures to deliver desired results during her tenure .
2. Unity Among Stakeholders: The protesters call for unity among stakeholders to oppose Adeyeye’s leadership and advocate for a leader at NAFDAC who prioritizes the nation’s health and economic stability .
Implications of the Ban:
1. Economic Consequences: The ban could lead to job losses and business closures, further impacting the Nigerian economy .
2. Counterfeit Beverages: Critics argue that the ban may not effectively address the issue of counterfeit beverages, which could create doubts about the authenticity of products consumed by citizens .