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-N2eqjz31W8.png "FCCPC, GTB, MTN and Air Peace Logo")
NIGERIA — Following the violation of consumer's rights, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has launched a major probe into widespread consumer complaints against leading players in the banking, telecommunications, and aviation sectors.
This information was contained in the press statement issued by the Director, Corporate Affairs, FCCPC, Ondaje Ijagwu on Sunday.
He revealed that the commission would commence interrogation of those indicted from December 3rd through 5th.
The statement listed those indicted as Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), MTN Nigeria and Air Peace Limited.
The statement reads: "The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has launched a major inquiry into widespread consumer complaints against leading players in the banking, telecommunications, and aviation sectors.
"The inquisitions, which will begin on December 3rd, 4th, and 5th respectively, are intended to address issues of poor service delivery, exploitative practices, and potential consumer rights violations.
"In the banking sector, the FCCPC will engage Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) over reports of network failures that hinder customers from accessing their funds or using banking applications.
"In the telecommunications sector, MTN Nigeria faces questions regarding persistent complaints of undelivered data services, unexplained data depletion, and inadequate customer care.
"Similarly, Air Peace Limited will address allegations of exploitative ticket pricing, including significant price hikes for advance bookings on certain domestic routes," the statement reads.
According to the commission, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, specifically Sections 17, 18, 32, 33, 80, 110, 111, 112, and 113, empowered it to investigate and resolve practices that undermine consumer rights, disrupt markets, or create unfair competition.
Ijagwu said, the engagement with these companies would provide a platform to address consumer concerns.
"FCCPC’s engagement with these companies provides a platform to address consumer concerns, clarify business practices, and enforce compliance with regulatory standards. The companies will be required to appear before the Commission on designated days to provide information and responses to enable the Commission to make determinations and resolve pending issues promptly.
"This action reflects the Commission’s commitment to safeguarding consumer rights, fostering a fair marketplace and ensuring accountability across all sectors," Ijagwu added.
The commission however urged consumers to continue to report instances of poor service delivery or exploitative practices to the FCCPC through its official channels.
