The Governor of Ebonyi State, David Umahi has banned the
consumption of Coke, Sprite and Fanta at government functions in the state.
The ban follows reports alleging that some soft drinks could
be dangerous to health.
The governor gave the order during a meeting with
traditional rulers and town union executives in the state.
Recall that a Lagos State High Court had in a suit between
Fijabi Adebo Holdings Limited and Emmanuel Fijabi Adebo against the Nigerian
Bottling Company Ltd and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration
and Control, ruled that Fanta Orange and Sprite may be hazardous if consumed
with vitamin C.
The court said the drinks may contain high levels of two
additives, benzoic acid and sunset yellow, which may be dangerous for human
consumption.
The governor said, “I don’t want these brands of soft drink
to be served in any government function again.”
He said this entering the governor’s lodge, venue of the
Tuesday meeting, and noticed the soft drinks on the tables.
Umahi then directed the ushers to remove all bottles of
coke, sprite and fanta from the hall, saying “they are dangerous to health.”
By John Owen Nwachukwu
