The Nigerian Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has announced a comprehensive inquiry into alleged violations of consumer rights involving major players in the aviation, banking, and telecommunications sectors. The investigation, set to commence on December 3, will scrutinize Air Peace, Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB), and MTN Nigeria following numerous complaints of poor service delivery and exploitative practices.
In a statement released on Sunday, FCCPC spokesperson Ondaje Ijagwu confirmed the launch of the investigation, emphasizing the Commission’s commitment to upholding consumer rights and promoting accountability across sectors.
Air Peace, a leading airline in Nigeria, is under scrutiny for alleged exploitative ticket pricing. The FCCPC revealed that the investigation would focus on reports of significant price hikes, particularly for advance bookings on certain domestic routes. The Commission plans to engage with the airline to address these concerns and determine whether such practices violate consumer protection laws.
In the banking industry, Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB) is facing inquiries over repeated network failures. Customers have reported difficulties in accessing funds and using the bank’s digital platforms, raising questions about the reliability of its services. The FCCPC aims to explore these issues to ensure that banking services meet acceptable standards of performance and accessibility.
The telecommunications giant MTN Nigeria is also in the spotlight following persistent consumer complaints. Key concerns include undelivered data services, unexplained data depletion, and inadequate customer care responses. The FCCPC will investigate whether MTN’s practices comply with consumer rights standards and explore measures to enhance service delivery.
The inquiries will be conducted under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, which grants the FCCPC authority to address anti-consumer practices, market disruptions, and unfair competition. Specific provisions cited include Sections 17, 18, 32, and 113 of the Act, which empower the Commission to investigate, resolve, and enforce compliance.
The probe is scheduled to unfold over three days, with sessions on December 3, 4, and 5, dedicated to Air Peace, GTB, and MTN, respectively. Each company will be required to appear before the FCCPC to provide information and clarify their practices.
According to the FCCPC, the goal is not only to resolve existing complaints but also to encourage a fair and transparent marketplace where consumer interests are prioritized.
The FCCPC urged Nigerian consumers to continue reporting instances of poor service or exploitative practices through its official channels. “This action reflects the Commission’s dedication to safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring accountability in the marketplace,” the statement read.
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