The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has announced (1 December) a sweeping investigation into potential consumer rights violations by major players in Nigeria’s banking, telecommunications, and aviation industries.
The probe comes in response to widespread complaints from consumers about poor service delivery, exploitative practices, and unresolved grievances. According to the FCCPC, these inquiries will be held on December 3rd, 4th, and 5th and involve Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), MTN Nigeria, and Air Peace Limited, respectively.
Key Allegations by Sector
- Banking: Guaranty Trust Bank is under scrutiny for recurring network failures that have reportedly left customers unable to access funds or use banking applications.
- Telecommunications: MTN Nigeria faces allegations of undelivered data services, unexplained data depletion, and poor customer support.
- Aviation: Air Peace Limited is accused of exploitative ticket pricing, including significant fare hikes for advance bookings on specific domestic routes.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
The FCCPC’s investigations are anchored in the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, which empowers the Commission to address practices that undermine consumer rights, disrupt market fairness, or create monopolistic conditions. Relevant sections of the Act include provisions for investigating, resolving, and enforcing compliance with consumer protection standards.
A Platform for Accountability
“The engagement with these companies provides an opportunity to address consumer concerns, clarify business practices, and ensure regulatory compliance,” said Ondaje Ijagwu, FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs. The companies will appear before the Commission to present their responses and cooperate in resolving the issues.
Consumer Involvement Encouraged
The FCCPC has reiterated its commitment to fostering accountability and ensuring a fair marketplace across sectors. It also urged consumers to report poor service delivery or exploitative practices through its official channels.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=896839942572693&set=a.179041364352558
