It’s essential to handle the assertions made in The reporter publication dated fifth of March, 2024 concerning the purported hyperlink between sachet alcoholic drinks and psychological sickness. It is very important critically study among the assumptions and biases underlying their arguments.
Firstly, the assertion that sachet alcoholic drinks uniquely spike psychological sickness must be scrutinized.
There’s a lack of complete proof instantly linking sachet alcoholic drinks to psychological sickness in comparison with different types of alcohol. Alcohol abuse ( whether or not you select to drink beer or spirit in a sachet or bottle ) and most significantly substance abuse ( drug and substances) can certainly exacerbate psychological well being situations, however attributing this solely to sachet alcoholic drinks with out contemplating different components and sorts of alcohol consumption is reductionist and probably deceptive.
Furthermore, the deal with indigenous Nigerian manufacturers of alcoholic drinks raises questions on bias and discrimination. Why are these Nigerian manufacturers being singled out when overseas alcoholic drinks, that are additionally consumed frequently, aren’t subjected to the identical scrutiny? This bias towards indigenous manufacturers suggests a scarcity of cultural sensitivity and will perpetuate dangerous stereotypes about Nigerian produced items.
It appears to me that there’s an agenda to label Nigerian manufacturers as inferior to their overseas counterparts. Spirits are loved by each the wealthy/rich and the poor. The range in market permits Customers make decisions primarily based on their style earnings and preferences . Sadly, with this latest narrative, Nigerian manufacturers are all of the sudden brandished as the reason for psychological sickness whereas the overseas counterparts are given a free cross. The reality is Nigerians are on the verge of destroying Nigerian owned companies with irresponsible narratives if they aren’t checked.
How about we help native owned enterprise as an alternative of killing them by pushing a specific agenda. Nigeria is for Nigerians and everybody must be given a good and equal degree enjoying floor to thrive.
Moreover, suggesting that psychological sickness is predominantly related to the poor who eat sachet drinks overlooks the complicated socioeconomic components influencing alcohol consumption and psychological well being outcomes. Psychological sickness doesn’t discriminate primarily based on socioeconomic standing, and attributing it solely to the affordability of sachet drinks oversimplifies the problem.
Importantly, the argument for sustaining the ban on sachet alcoholic drinks must be primarily based on evidence-based public well being concerns quite than arbitrary judgments about sure sorts of alcohol. Whereas there could also be reliable considerations in regards to the accessibility and affordability of sachet drinks, blanket bans with out addressing underlying socioeconomic points and offering various options could not successfully deal with the basis causes of alcohol-related hurt.
In conclusion, it’s important to strategy this concern with nuance and keep away from stigmatizing indigenous manufacturers or perpetuating stereotypes about alcohol consumption and psychological well being. Any coverage selections concerning alcohol regulation must be primarily based on complete analysis and consideration of broader socioeconomic components impacting public well being outcomes.
Uche Nwakwe, a Public Affairs Analyst writes from Anambra
