Labour unions stage a seventh-day protest at NAFDAC Lagos office, demanding reopening of factories sealed over sachet alcohol ban

The industrial clash between organised labour and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) intensified on Thursday as workers staged their seventh consecutive day of protest at the agency’s Lagos office in Isolo.

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Members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Food, Beverage and Tobacco Senior Staff Association (FOBTOB) picketed the premises, chanting solidarity songs and blocking access, temporarily halting operations.

Security personnel from the Nigeria Police Force’s Odi-Olowo Division were deployed to maintain order.

By late morning, normal activities resumed without violence.

Union leaders have vowed to continue the protest until their demands are met.

They are calling for the reopening of factories and warehouses sealed after NAFDAC enforced a ban on sachet alcohol and 10cl PET bottled alcoholic products.

Jeffery Igein, National Secretary of FOBTOB, said, “This is the seventh day of our action, and we remain resolute. We will not back down until our concerns are properly handled.”

Labour groups argue that NAFDAC’s enforcement has led to factory closures, job losses, and hardship for workers and their families.

Comrade Anthony Oyaga, TUC Secretary, criticised the approach, describing it as excessive and harmful to local businesses.

The unions warned that the shutdowns are affecting thousands, including transporters, distributors, suppliers, and retailers.

They advocate targeted regulatory measures that protect public health without crippling the industry.

Protesting workers appealed to President Bola Tinubu, lawmakers, state governors, traditional and religious leaders, and civil society organisations to intervene.

They insist dialogue and structured regulation would prevent “economic strangulation.”

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With no immediate resolution in sight, the standoff continues, with both NAFDAC and the unions standing firm on their positions.