The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has inaugurated a major inquiry into widespread consumer complaints against banks, telecommunication companies, and the aviation sector.

The FCCPC made this known via a statement issued by its Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, on Sunday, December 1, 2024.

Ijagwu said the FCCPC would engage Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) over reports of network failures that hindered customers from accessing their funds.

Ijagwu said the commission would also engage MTN Nigeria for persistent complaints of undelivered data services, unexplained data depletion, and inadequate customer care.

He said Air Peace Limited would be engaged to address allegations of exploitative ticket pricing, including significant price hikes for advance bookings on certain domestic routes.

The FCCPC spokesperson said the engagement which would begin between December 3 and December 5  would address issues of poor service delivery, exploitative practices, and potential consumer rights violations.

Ijagwu said the inquiries would be conducted under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, specifically Sections 17, 18, 32, 33, 80, 110, 111, 112, and 113.

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He said the Act empowered the FCCPC to investigate and resolve practices that undermined consumer rights, disrupted markets, or created unfair competition.

According to him, the FCCPC’s engagement with the companies provides a platform to address consumer concerns, clarify business practices, and enforce compliance with regulatory standards.

Ijagwu stated: “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 urged consumers to continue to report instances of poor service delivery or exploitative practices to the FCCPC through its official channels.

The Star