Prof Ogbonna Patrick Odey A professor of Brewing Science and Technology, Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Uyo, Prof Augustine Ogbonna, says contrary to what people are made to believe, moderate consumption of alcoholic beverages is beneficial to human health. He defended his stance by noting that there is no part of the scriptures that opposes moderate use of alcohol. The don made this assertion on Saturday while delivering the 102 inaugural lecture of the University of Uyo, titled, ‘From Barley to Sorghum: A Paradigm Shift for Nigerian to Brewing Industry” Quoting copiously from the scriptures to buttress his point, he faulted what he described as misconceptions and sentiments shared by some religious leaders that consumption of alcohol is a sin.
The professor said Jesus Christ never preached against the use of wine, adding that He, like other Jews, advised people to drink in moderation. Ogbonna expressed dismay that both Muslims and Christians frowned at the consumption of alcohol but accepted a share of taxes from the production and sales of alcohol, adding that despite these religious sentiments, alcohol consumption remains a social activity. He said, “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, bro.
