Sachet Alcohol Workers Threaten Nationwide Protest Over NAFDAC Ban

Workers in the sachet alcohol industry, backed by civil society groups, have warned of a potential nationwide protest if the ban on alcoholic beverages in sachets and small PET bottles is not rescinded. The threat was issued during a protest at the Lagos office of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on Monday.

This is the second demonstration in three days by employees under the Food, Beverages, and Tobacco Senior Staff Association (FOBTOB) and the National Union of Food, Beverages, and Tobacco Employees (NUFBTE). They argue that the ban, which affects products below 200ml, jeopardizes over five million direct and indirect jobs.

Union leaders criticized NAFDAC for proceeding with factory closures while discussions on a national alcohol policy were still ongoing with the House of Representatives. FOBTOB National President, Oyibo Jimoh, accused the agency of disregarding the legislative process and misrepresenting the alcohol content in sachet beverages.

“If the government continues to ignore our calls, it could lead to a nationwide protest. It is very possible,” stated Azeez Rasaq of NUFBTE. He added that the unions would seek the support of central labour bodies, the Trade Union Congress and the Nigeria Labour Congress.

Civil society representatives joined the protest, arguing that the ban infringes on consumer rights and unfairly targets low-income earners. “We will not hesitate to mobilise our members across the country,” said activist Declan Ihekaira.

A worker, Biodun Adeyemi, expressed fear over losing his livelihood, stating, “If the only language the government understands is people taking to the streets… then we are ready.”

NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, had met with protesters last Friday but maintained that the ban would stand unless the law is changed. The unions have vowed to escalate their actions, including taking their protest to the National Assembly in Abuja, if their demands are not met.