Koko Maxwella 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Legal practitioner Liborous Oshoma backs the phased ban on sachet alcoholic drinks, insisting that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) lacks the authority to suspend a regulatory action by NAFDAC.
In a statement on Tuesday, Oshoma says the ban is critical to public safety, citing the widespread abuse of sachet alcohol and its accessibility to drivers, minors and other vulnerable groups.
He argues that the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control derives its powers from its enabling Act under the Federal Ministry of Health, not the SGF. “The SGF cannot override a lawful regulatory decision taken by NAFDAC. Any concerns must be addressed through the appropriate ministerial channel,” Oshoma says.
He recalls that a two-year moratorium is granted to manufacturers to exhaust existing stock, warning that political interference at this stage could undermine regulatory institutions and weaken governance.
While commending NAFDAC’s resolve, Oshoma stresses that enforcement, public education and stakeholder engagement are essential to achieving the objectives of the ban.
He urges full compliance ahead of the December 31 deadline, noting that protecting children and vulnerable populations must remain a national priority.
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