The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has expressed concern over increasing complaints of unfair charges, poor service delivery, and anti-competitive practices in parts of the country.
The statement was made by the Commission’s North-East Zonal Coordinator, Mrs Odo Janet, during a stakeholders’ engagement with officials of the Bauchi State Network of Civil Society Organisations (BASNEC) and the Executive Directors Forum on Thursday in Bauchi.
Mrs Odo said consumers continue to face challenges, including unexplained deductions, internet service failures, inflated market prices, and restrictions imposed by trade associations.
She noted that some consumers are denied business opportunities because they are not registered under certain associations, describing the trend as unhealthy for economic growth.
The FCCPC Zonal Coordinator stressed that every Nigerian has the freedom to engage in lawful business activities without intimidation or unnecessary barriers.
She also lamented situations where consumers are billed for services not properly rendered, particularly in the telecommunications and service sectors.
According to her, the FCCPC Act empowers the Commission to regulate competition and ensure fairness in the Nigerian marketplace.
She further called on citizens to document evidence of exploitation and formally report such cases for investigation and possible sanctions against offenders.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to protecting consumers and ensuring accountability among service providers nationwide.
The Bauchi State Network of Civil Society Organisations, under the leadership of Mr Jinjiri Garba, said they visited the Commission due to the persistent increase in additional charges, poor power supply in some areas, as well as inadequate information regarding consumers’ complaints.
He explained that, as a body concerned about the plight of the citizenry, it deemed it necessary to ascertain the exact situation surrounding the problems and how they could be addressed without confrontation.
Our correspondent reports that the issue began following the introduction and installation of new meters in some selected areas under the “Band A” category.
