The Niger state government says it will ban sales and consumption of alcohol in some parts of the state from January 1, 2024.
The State Liquor and Licencing Board made this known on Monday in Minnesota.
The State Liquor and Licensing Board’s decision to implement a ban on alcohol sales and consumption is a noteworthy development in Niger State. While the consumption of alcohol has been a subject of public scrutiny and regulation in many regions globally, such a comprehensive ban is a significant step. The move reflects a broader consideration of public health, social, and possibly religious factors that have led to this decision.
Ibrahim Muhammad Bonu, the secretary of the State Liquor and Licensing Board, outlined the specifics of the prohibition. The ban is set to affect nine local government areas in Niger State, with Suleja being a prominent inclusion. This implies that establishments involved in the sale of alcohol, as well as individuals consuming it, will be subject to legal repercussions if found to be violating the ban.
According to the secretary of the board, Ibrahim Muhammad Bonu, who made the pronouncement, the prohibition will affect nine local government areas of the state, including Suleja.
Bonu also revealed that some beer joints within Minna, the state capital, would also be served with relocation letters to move outside the city to within an eight-kilometre radius of the post office in the state.
Warning staff of the board to stay away from illegal activities and soliciting for any gratification from operators of beer parlours, Bonu said any staff found wanting would be dealt with.
He said: “We are calling on all vendors to abide by the relevant extant laws establishing the board. The law establishing the board has the mandate to control the activities of all liquor vendors in the state and therefore, nine local government areas were on the first schedule of the prohibited areas, and Suleja happens to be among them, and as such, the board will ensure strict compliance with the law.”
The decision by the Niger State government to ban the sale and consumption of alcohol in specific areas is a significant policy shift with potential far-reaching consequences. As January 1, 2024, approaches, the focus will undoubtedly be on how effectively the ban is implemented, its impact on local businesses, and the broader implications for public health and safety. The ongoing discourse surrounding this decision underscores the complex interplay of cultural, social, economic, and religious factors that influence alcohol-related policies in diverse communities.
