The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has announced a comprehensive investigation into widespread consumer complaints against major players in the banking, telecommunications, and aviation sectors. FCCPC Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday.
According to the statement, the inquiries, scheduled to begin on December 3, 4, and 5, will address concerns related to poor service delivery, exploitative practices, and possible violations of consumer rights.
In the banking sector, Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) will be examined over reports of network failures that hinder customers from accessing funds and using banking applications.
In the telecommunications sector, MTN Nigeria is facing scrutiny over persistent complaints about undelivered data services, unexplained data depletion, and inadequate customer support.
Air Peace Limited, representing the aviation sector, will respond to allegations of exploitative ticket pricing, particularly significant price hikes for advance bookings on domestic routes.
The Commission stated that the investigations are conducted under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, specifically Sections 17, 18, 32, 33, 80, 110, 111, 112, and 113.
These provisions empower the FCCPC to investigate practices that harm consumer rights, distort markets, or promote unfair competition.
Ondaje Ijagwu noted, “This action reflects the Commission’s commitment to safeguarding consumer rights, fostering a fair marketplace, and ensuring accountability across all sectors.”
The FCCPC emphasized that these engagements provide an opportunity to address consumer grievances, clarify business practices, and enforce compliance with regulatory standards.
The companies involved are expected to appear before the Commission on the scheduled dates to provide information and responses to assist in resolving the issues promptly.
The FCCPC also called on consumers to actively report instances of poor service delivery or exploitative practices through its official channels. “We urge consumers to continue to report instances of poor service delivery or exploitative practices to the FCCPC,” the statement added.
The initiative highlights the FCCPC’s dedication to protecting consumer rights and promoting fair practices across critical sectors of the economy.
