The Yoruba Youth Socio-Cultural Association has called for a ban on bleaching creams, claiming Nigerian nursing mothers use them on their babies.

The group stated this on Thursday as it threw its weight behind the National Assembly’s move to ban the importation and production of bleaching creams in the country.

In a statement by its National President, Hammed Olalekan, the group said, “It’s undoubtedly an epidemic in Nigeria and, if not curtailed, will later lead to an outbreak of cancer, not only among adults but little children.

“This is for the fact nursing mothers too are now using it for their infants.”

YYSA, therefore, implored the National Assembly to enact laws that will make the production and importation of bleaching creams illegal.

The group added, “Severe punishment should also be suggested during the enactment of the law. 

“As part of its advocacies to instil right values, right attitudes, and behaviours that are acceptable among youths across Nigeria, the YYSA is in full support of this move.

“Bleaching is an act of immorality that has become a commonality in Nigeria.

“This is because it is generally used by all classes of people in society, including elites.