The League of Imams and Alfas has expressed concern over what it described as the Federal Government’s continued indecision on the proposed ban of sachet alcohol, warning that the delay poses grave moral and social consequences for the country.
The Islamic clerics specifically faulted the back-and-forth between the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and the Federal Government over the prohibition of alcohol packaged in sachets, saying the wavering posture sends a “dangerous signal” to young Nigerians.
In a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Imam Tajudeen Mustapha Adewunmi, on Friday, the group said the easy availability and affordability of sachet alcohol had fuelled its widespread consumption among underage children, students and other vulnerable groups.
According to the clerics, what was once considered an adult product has now infiltrated schools, motor parks and neighbourhood corners, contributing to rising cases of indiscipline, violence, addiction and broken homes.
“The consequences are evident in the growing rate of crime, cultism, road accidents, mental instability and the erosion of societal values that should define us as a people,” the statement read.
The League lamented that economic considerations appeared to be taking precedence over public health and moral responsibility, insisting that no revenue gains could justify what it described as the destruction of the nation’s youth.
“Government exists primarily to protect lives and promote the common good, not to encourage products that endanger them,” the group stated.
The clerics therefore urged the Federal Government, the National Assembly and NAFDAC to show “courage and responsibility” by enforcing the ban on sachet alcohol without further delay.
They stressed that any decision on the matter should be guided by its social, health and moral implications rather than commercial interests.
The League pledged the support of the Muslim community in Ogun State for policies aimed at safeguarding children and restoring moral discipline in society, adding that history would judge leaders by the choices they make on issues affecting future
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