Anambra Lawmaker Moves To Stop NAFDAC’s Sachet Alcohol Ban

The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate the rationale behind the ban imposed on the production of alcoholic beverages in sachets and small bottles by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

The resolution follows the adoption of a motion by Hon. Paschal Agbodike (APGA-Anambra) during plenary on Wednesday.

Earlier, Agbodike noted that Section 4(2) of the Constitution empowers the National Assembly to make laws for Nigeria.

He also cited Sections 88(1) and (2) which allow the legislature to investigate government agencies executing or administering laws passed by the National Assembly.

Agbodike said NAFDAC announced in January 2024 its decision to cease registration of alcoholic beverages in small containers, with existing registrations expiring by January 2024.

He argued that the ban contradicts the Constitution and the Bola Tinubu administration’s Economic Recovery Plan.

Given Nigeria’s economic challenges, he said the ban would cause job losses for over 50% of workers and harm small businesses which employ 84% of the workforce.

However, Hon. Olamide Osoba (APC-Ogun) countered the motion, saying that regulating food and drugs is NAFDAC’s mandate, and the ban aligns with global best practices.

Osoba added that small liquor containers can easily be abused by underage youth.

The Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, directed NAFDAC to investigate the matter and report back in four weeks for potential legislative action.

Separately, the Coalition Against Economic Saboteurs protested at the National Assembly against the ban.

Co-convener of the group, Ben Omale, called for a reversal of the ban and removal of the NAFDAC Director-General, citing threats to small businesses and the masses.

The coalition argued that the poor also deserve affordable alcohol options.

The group carried placards that read “Moji Adeyeye Must Resign Now”, “Moji Adeyeye, a threat to national stability”, and “NAFDAC, let the poor breathe”, among others.