In the Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, women have taken action by seizing and destroying alcoholic beverages and related substances from shops in various communities. According to Headlinenews.news investigative reports, this initiative was particularly prominent in the Sabon Bariki and Bukuru Low-Cost areas of the Gyel District, where a significant number of women participated. They expressed concerns that these substances were contributing to their husbands’ irresponsibility.
The women, organized into groups, along with support from young girls, children, vigilantes, and other volunteers, targeted both shops and joints selling such products. Despite some shop owners locking up and fleeing upon hearing of the women’s intentions, the women vowed to return with even stricter measures.
This initiative reportedly had the approval of community and traditional leaders. The women were particularly focused on locally produced alcoholic beverages and intoxicants they deemed harmful due to their high chemical concentrations.
Expressing their grievances, one woman stated, “These drinks are turning our men into irresponsible people. They weaken them, rob them of their vitality, and render them useless.” She further lamented the adverse effects on youths, who she claimed were increasingly neglecting manual labor and agricultural activities in favor of spending time in drinking establishments.
Concerns were also raised about the impact on marital relationships, with women noting a decline in their husbands’ ability to fulfill their spousal duties due to alcohol consumption. One youth interviewed acknowledged that while the women’s actions might temporarily disrupt access to alcohol, it wouldn’t ultimately solve the underlying issues, particularly among the younger generation. He suggested that government empowerment programs could offer a more sustainable solution by providing opportunities for meaningful employment.
