Former Senator Shehu Sani has once again stirred discussions on social media with a thought-provoking statement addressing the dynamics of alcohol production in Nigeria.
In a tweet shared on his verified Twitter account, the outspoken politician highlighted the regional contributions to the alcohol industry, raising questions about the roles of the North and South in the supply chain.
Sani stated, “The grains used for the production of alcohol mostly come from the North. The industries that ferment the grains to alcohol are mostly from the South. Who is the mother and who is the father of alcohol in this situation?”
The tweet has sparked widespread reactions, with many interpreting it as a commentary on the interconnectedness of Nigeria’s regional economies despite cultural and religious differences. Northern Nigeria, predominantly Muslim, adheres to Islamic laws that largely prohibit alcohol consumption, yet it supplies grains like millet and sorghum used in alcohol production.
Southern Nigeria, which has a more diverse religious composition, houses most of the industries that process these grains into alcoholic beverages.
Social media users have reacted with humor and debate, some praising Sani’s wit in framing the issue, while others delved into the economic and cultural implications. Critics argue that the statement highlights contradictions in regional practices, while supporters emphasize the importance of cooperation for economic growth.