Ibadan Sachet Alcohol Sellers Protest Ban, Appeal to Tinubu

Sachet alcohol sellers in Ibadan, Oyo State, protested on Thursday at the Federal Secretariat, appealing to President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government to reconsider the ban on alcoholic drinks packaged in sachets and containers below 200 millilitres. The traders expressed that the ban jeopardizes their businesses and livelihoods, particularly affecting many women who rely on this trade for income.

Iyabo Balogun, the Iyalode of sachet alcohol traders, emphasized that many sellers are widows who use their earnings to support their families. The protesters requested a transition arrangement to help them shift to other businesses and sought financial support if the ban remains.

Dr Isaac Kolawole, the Oyo State Coordinator of NAFDAC, acknowledged their concerns but reiterated that the ban is driven by health concerns regarding high-alcohol-content products in small packages. The enforcement of the ban has intensified since February 2024, impacting many traders who had invested in this business.