The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, on Thursday, said it has uncovered deceptive methods used by syndicates at the Garki Modern Market to sell rice below the claimed weight.
The commission in a statement signed by its acting Executive Vice Chairman, Adamu Abdullahi, said this fraudulent practice was discovered after a targeted enforcement operation at the modern market in Abuja.
This action was part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to protect consumer rights and interests, as mandated by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018, particularly under Sections 17(1)(s), 116(2), 124, 125, 138, and 155.
The law, in Section 125, stipulates that businesses must not make false or deceptive representations about material facts to consumers.
Section 138 further places liability on manufacturers, importers, distributors, and suppliers for breach of implied obligations by law, including product claims.
According to him, its officials discovered that the bags of rice 25kg and 50kg did not weigh the claimed sizes, noting discrepancies between the weight claims and the actual content.
He added that such practices not only violate the FCCPA but also exploit consumers through deceptive means.
The statement read, “The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission conducted a targeted enforcement operation at the Garki Modern Market in Abuja.
“The operation aimed to verify the accuracy of product claims on 25kg and 50kg bags of rice. Our findings revealed discrepancies between the weight claims and the actual content. Such practices not only violate the FCCPA but also exploit consumers through deceptive means.”
The FCCPC boss added that a notice of summon has been issued to the perpetrators for further investigation and provide written undertakings to cease these deceptive practices.
“Consequently, we have issued summons to the perpetrators. They are required to appear before the commission and provide written undertakings to cease these deceptive practices. A Mutual Supervisory Understanding will also be issued to monitor compliance.
“As we approach the festive season, like every other season, the FCCPC encourages consumers to demand and insist on full value for money. We advise verifying the weight of rice packages to align with stated claims and report any inconsistencies through the complaint tab on our website,” Abdullahi added.
The FCCPC has vowed to ensure fair pricing and protect consumers’ interests.
Last month, the commission sealed Sahad Stores, a popular Abuja shopping mall over “misleading” or “deceptive” pricing practices.
It also promised to investigate the increasing price of sachet water, describing it as “unacceptable.”