Hundreds of workers at distillery companies in Sango-Ota say they are bearing the brunt of NAFDAC’s enforcement of the ban on alcoholic drinks in sachets and PET bottles below 200ml, as their factories remain shut for weeks.
The affected workers, who depend on wages from Nigerian Distillery Limited, Intercontinental Distillers Limited, Supreme Distillery and Euro Global Foods, said the prolonged closure has left families without money for food, rent and school fees.
In a joint statement issued on Friday, union leaders said the enforcement, while aimed at public health, has turned workers into collateral damage.
In a statement signed by Oluwole Ajayi, Ogun State Chairman of the National Union of Food, Beverage and Tobacco Employees, and Somefun Olamiye, Branch Chairman of the Food, Beverage and Tobacco Senior Staff Association, the workers stressed that they have no hand in company policies or regulatory breaches.
“We are also disturbed by the heavy presence of security personnel around the factories. This has created fear and intimidation among workers who only want to return to work and contribute to the economy.
“We state clearly that workers are not criminals. We do not make company policy or regulatory decisions. We only report to work and earn an honest living. It is unfair for us to suffer for actions outside our control,” the statement added.
The workers said they are not against regulation, but are asking for a balance that protects both public health and their livelihoods.
They appealed to the Federal Government, the Nigeria Labour Congress, the Trade Union Congress, and civil society groups to intervene and help reopen the factories.
“Our goal is not to obstruct regulation. We seek fairness, justice and a balanced approach that protects both public interest and the welfare of Nigerian workers.
“We remain committed to peace, dialogue and the rule of law. We hope this matter is resolved quickly to end the suffering of innocent workers and their families,” the statement concluded.
