FCCPC vows tougher action on fake goods, price-fixing in markets

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) says it is intensifying enforcement against deceptive trade practices, price-fixing cartels, and counterfeit goods across major markets in the federal capital territory (FCT).

Tunji Bello, executive vice chairman and chief executive officer (CEO) of the FCCPC, spoke during a market engagement forum held on Tuesday in Abuja.

Bello, represented by Bridget Etim, principal consumer and business education officer, said the initiative forms part of the commission’s nationwide efforts to engage directly with traders and consumers at the grassroots.

“We are not in a boardroom, and we are not here for show,” Bello told a gathering of traders, producers, and market leaders.

“We are here because this is where consumer protection begins — in the markets, among the people.”

Bello noted that markets are “the heartbeat of the Nigerian economy,” but flagged several widespread infractions undermining consumer safety and distorting fair trade.

“How many of you have bought rice, beans or garri, only to get home and find out that what you received was far less than what was paid for?” he said.

“These are not just bad practices; they are illegal.”

The FCCPC boss cited rising complaints of product mislabelling, rebagging of expired or substandard goods as new, and price manipulation by market associations.

“These acts deceive consumers, expose them to serious health risks, and punish honest traders. We will not allow it,” Bello said.

According to the FCCPC boss, price-fixing, especially during festive periods, and the sale of underweight goods through tempered scales are also being investigated.

“Price manipulation and collusion undermine market integrity, and such practices contravene the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018,” he said.

Bello clarified that the commission’s role is not to witch-hunt businesses, but to create a level playing field.

“If you sell fairly, give accurate information, and treat your customers with respect, you are already helping us do our job,” he said.

The FCCPC CEO urged traders and market leaders to embrace compliance and report unfair practices, assuring that whistleblowers would be protected and their reports treated confidentially.

Bello also announced plans to expand consumer education campaigns in local languages and offer compliance support to help traders meet legal standards.

On June 11, FCCPC launched an inter-agency task force to monitor trade conduct in four FCT markets — Wuse, Utako, Garki International, and Garki Modern.