Why Ogogoro ‘Joints’ Still Boom In Abuja

The Federal Government recently banned the consumption of local gin, popularly called ogogoro, across the country, due to reported cases of about 100 deaths in Rivers and Ondo states resulting from consumption of the gin.

However, the business is still booming in Abuja, as the usual spots in Jikwoyi, a suburb of Abuja, still remain as busy as ever, especially in the evenings.
One of the ogogoro dealers (names withheld), told FCT Watch that the recent cases of death which allegedly resulted from the consumption of the deadly gin and a consequential ban by the Federal Government did not affect his business.

“I still sell very well. My customers are still regular. Although some of them said that they have been cautioned by their friends and family members, they still come here daily,” he said.
A regular customer, who would not give his name either, disclosed that he resorted to consuming localy made gin, because he could scarcely afford regular beer, which costs about N250 per bottle, depending on the brand.
“My sister, I drive okada to survive and I no have N250 to buy any brand of beer. Ogogoro is cheaper and available.”