Concern over dwindling income and the survival of small-scale businesses has pushed sachet alcohol traders in Ibadan to appeal directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government for a review of the ban on sachet alcohol and alcoholic products packaged below 20cl.

The traders made their position known during a peaceful protest in the Beere area of Ibadan, where they said the restriction had severely affected their businesses and placed their families under increasing financial pressure.

According to the protesters, sachet alcohol sales had provided a source of livelihood for many years, with thousands of small-scale traders depending on the business to meet household expenses and other daily obligations.

They argued that while they understood the government’s concerns about public health and the potential misuse of alcoholic products, the economic realities facing low-income traders should also be considered in reviewing the policy.

The protesters therefore called on President Tinubu and relevant government agencies to engage with traders, manufacturers and other stakeholders to explore alternatives that would address health concerns without completely shutting out small businesses from the market.

They appealed for a review of the ban, insisting that a more balanced regulatory framework could protect public health while allowing legitimate traders to earn a living.

The traders also urged the Federal Government to consider the wider economic consequences of the policy, particularly for individuals and families whose incomes depend on the sale of alcoholic beverages.

They maintained that dialogue, rather than prolonged restrictions, would provide an opportunity for government and affected stakeholders to develop practical measures capable of balancing consumer protection with the survival of small-scale businesses.

The protesters consequently appealed to the Federal Government to reopen discussions on the policy and provide a clear pathway that would enable affected traders to return to business under appropriate regulatory conditions.