*The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission asserts the discrepancies uncovered between the weight claims and the actual content of foodstuffs at the Garki Ultra Modern Market, Abuja, violate the FCCP Act and exploit consumers through deceptive means

Isola Moses | 绿帽献妻

As part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts at protecting consumer rights and interests, as mandated by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, particularly under Sections 17(l)(s), 116(2), 124, 125, 138, and 155, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has disclosed it conducted a targeted enforcement operation in Garki Ultra Modern Market, Abuja, FCT.

The market regulatory Commission noted the operation conducted in the market revealed discrepancies between the weight claims and actual content of foodstuffs in the market.

Dr. Adamu Abdullahi, Acting Executive Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of FCCPC, Thursday, March 28, 2024, stated that the operation in the Abuja market aimed to verify the accuracy of product claims on 25kg and 50kg bags of rice, one of the staple food items in Nigeria.

Dr. Adamu Abdullahi, Acting Executive Vice-Chairman and CEO of FCCPC (3rd right) in Abuja

Abdullahi disclosed the Commission’s findings showed “discrepancies between the weight claims and the actual content. Such practices not only violate the FCCPA but also exploit consumers through deceptive means.

The Acting EVC/CEO of FCCPC also stated: “Consequently, we have issued summons to the perpetrators. They are required to appear before the Commission and provide a written undertaking to cease these deceptive practices. “A Mutual Supervisory Understanding (MSU) will also be issued to monitor compliance.”

Abdullahi also as Nigerians approach the festive season, like every other season, the FCCPC encourages consumers to demand and insist on full value for money.

“We advise verifying the weight of rice packages to align with stated claims and report any inconsistencies through聽 the complaint tab on our website (www.fccpc.gov.ng).

“In accordance with Section 125 of the FCCPA, businesses must not make false or deceptive representations about material facts to consumers,” said FCCPC.

The statement added: “Section 138 further places liability on manufacturers, importers, distributors, and suppliers for breach of implied obligations by law, including product claims.

“The Commission is committed to safeguarding consumer rights and will continue to relentlessly pursue fairness in the marketplace.”