The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has initiated a comprehensive investigation into a surge of consumer complaints against prominent companies in the banking, telecommunications, and aviation industries. The inquiries, scheduled for December 3rd, 4th, and 5th, aim to address concerns regarding substandard service delivery, exploitative practices, and potential breaches of consumer rights.
Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) will face scrutiny from the FCCPC in the banking sector due to reports of network failures that prevent customers from accessing their funds or utilizing banking applications. In the telecommunications industry, MTN Nigeria will be questioned about persistent complaints of undelivered data services, unexplained data depletion, and unsatisfactory customer support.
Furthermore, Air Peace Limited will be required to respond to allegations of exploitative ticket pricing, particularly significant price increases for advance bookings on specific domestic routes.
The FCCPC is conducting these inquiries under the authority granted by Sections 17, 18, 32, 33, 80, 110, 111, 112, and 113 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018. These provisions empower the Commission to investigate and address practices that infringe upon consumer rights, disrupt markets, or create unfair competition.
Through engagement with these companies, the FCCPC seeks to address consumer concerns, clarify business practices, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. The companies are required to appear before the Commission on designated days to provide information and responses, enabling the Commission to make determinations and promptly resolve pending issues.
This action demonstrates the FCCPC’s dedication to protecting consumer rights, promoting a fair marketplace, and ensuring accountability across all sectors. Consumers are encouraged to continue reporting instances of poor service delivery or exploitative practices to the FCCPC through its official channels.
Ondaje Ijagwu, the Director of Corporate Affairs at the FCCPC, emphasized the importance of these inquiries in safeguarding the interests of Nigerian consumers and fostering a more transparent and equitable business environment.