Court upholds FCCPC’s authority to probe Air Peace over consumer complaints

A federal high court in Abuja has affirmed the authority of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to investigate consumer complaints and issue summons in the exercise of its statutory mandate.

In a statement on Monday, the commission said the judgment followed the dismissal of a suit filed by Air Peace Limited challenging the agency’s powers to investigate complaints against the airline.

The commission said the judgment, delivered by James Omotosho, affirmed its powers under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018, to receive complaints, assess matters brought before it, and take lawful steps, including investigations where necessary.

Reacting to the ruling, Tunji Bello, executive vice-chairman and chief executive officer (EVC/CEO) of the FCCPC, said the decision provides clarity on the importance of regulatory oversight in protecting consumers and promoting fair market practices.

“The judgment provides useful clarity on the importance of regulatory oversight in protecting consumers and promoting fair market practices,” Bello said.

He said the case arose from complaints relating to unrefunded ticket fares, cancelled flights, and other service concerns affecting passengers.

“Consumers who pay for services are entitled to fair treatment, transparency, and redress in accordance with applicable law,” he said.

Bello added that investigations conducted by the commission are administrative processes intended to establish facts and determine whether further action is required.

“Investigation is an administrative process intended to establish facts and determine whether further action is warranted. It does not amount to a finding of liability or wrongdoing,” he said.

The EVC said the commission remains committed to engaging market participants in a fair and transparent manner while ensuring due process.