The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has secured a legal victory against Air Peace Limited after the Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed a suit challenging the Commission’s authority to investigate consumer complaints within the aviation sector.

Delivering judgment on Monday, Justice James Omotosho affirmed that the FCCPC possesses the statutory powers, under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018 (FCCPA), to receive and investigate complaints from consumers, including issuing summons where necessary in the course of its duties.

The case stemmed from grievances filed by airline passengers over alleged non-refunded ticket fares, flight cancellations, and other service-related issues. Air Peace had sought to restrain the Commission from probing these complaints, arguing limits to the FCCPC’s jurisdiction.

Reacting to the ruling, FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Tunji Bello, described the judgment as a significant clarification of the Commission’s regulatory mandate. He noted that the decision reinforces the role of oversight in safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring fair market conduct.

Bello emphasized that consumers who pay for services are entitled to transparency, accountability, and timely redress, in line with existing laws. He further clarified that investigations by the Commission are administrative in nature and do not imply guilt or liability but are aimed at establishing facts and determining whether further regulatory action is necessary.

He added that the FCCPC remains committed to engaging businesses professionally while upholding due process, urging companies operating in Nigeria to cooperate with lawful regulatory procedures and strengthen internal mechanisms for resolving customer complaints.

The FCCPC reiterated its resolve to continue operating within its legal framework to protect consumers, foster competition, and build trust across key sectors, particularly in aviation. (The Guardian)

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