Illegal production, distribution and sale of banned sachet alcoholic drinks have persisted despite the expiry of the compliance deadline, prompting a tougher nationwide enforcement campaign to remove the products from circulation and prosecute offenders.
As the crackdown intensifies, market leaders, motor park operators and the general public have been urged not to allow the sale of sachet alcoholic beverages and PET bottles below 200 millilitres in their premises in order to protect public health, especially minors.
The ban on the production, distribution and consumption of alcoholic beverages in sachets and PET bottles below 200 millilitres was a public health decision rooted in evidence and based on directives of the Federal Government through Senate resolutions.
Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos, the Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, warned manufacturers and distributors who continue to trade in the banned products despite the expiration of the compliance deadline. She also cautioned against assaults on NAFDAC officials carrying out enforcement duties.
Professor Adeyeye said the ongoing nationwide mop-up operation is not a one-off exercise, warning that prohibited products found in circulation will be seized and destroyed, while those responsible will be brought to book.
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(Editor: Ada Ononye)
