Professor Augustine Ogbonna from the University of Uyo, a specialist in Brewing Science and Technology, challenges common misconceptions regarding the benefits of moderate alcohol consumption for human health.
He emphasized that there is no scriptural basis against the moderate use of alcoholic beverages, backing his argument with references during his recent lecture at the University of Uyo titled ‘From Barley to Sorghum: A Paradigm Shift for Nigerian to Brewing Industry.’
Drawing on biblical references, Professor Ogbonna refuted the notion propagated by some religious figures that drinking alcohol is inherently sinful.
He highlighted that Jesus Christ himself did not condemn the consumption of wine, advocating instead for moderation, a stance aligned with the cultural practices of his time.
Furthermore, the professor expressed concern over the contradictory attitudes of both Muslims and Christians towards alcohol consumption. Despite societal taboos on alcohol use, governments collect taxes from alcohol production and sales, indicating a level of societal acceptance of this practice.
Ultimately, Ogbonna underscored that alcohol consumption, when done in moderation, is a customary social activity that can have positive impacts on health, challenging prevailing biases and misconceptions.
He highlighted , “Wine and other beverages are frequently mentioned in the Bible as intoxicating, suggesting that they are alcoholic. The scriptures also have a lot to say about the drinking of alcohol
“Wine was first mentioned in the Bible in Genesis 14: 18 when Melchizedek, a priest of the most high God, brought forth bread and wine for Abraham and his companion. God even commanded his people in Deut. 14:26 to enjoy wine at their yearly festivals.
” In addition to using wine as a beverage, God also commanded the Levitical priests to include in the sacrifices, a portion of wine (‘yayan”) as a drink offering (Ex. 29:40).in (Gen: 27:28), a blessing of wine was prophesied as a heritage of the chosen people.
“There is nothing in either the Old Testament or the New Testament that opposes the moderate use of alcoholic beverages as they are beneficial to health.”
Ogbonna noted that moderate alcohol consumption is not harmful or addictive, citing medical professionals who recommend small amounts of red wine for its health benefits, particularly for heart health.
He urged the government to focus on developing a local sorghum breed to replace imported barley in beer production, rather than reversing policies.
