The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, FCCPC, has secured a major legal victory after the Federal High Court upheld its authority to investigate consumer complaints in the aviation sector, dismissing a suit filed by Air Peace Limited.
While delivering judgment on Monday in Abuja, Justice James Omotosho affirmed the Commission’s statutory powers under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, FCCPA, 2018 to receive complaints, issue summons, and conduct investigations where necessary.
A statement by the Commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, said the case stemmed from disputes involving alleged non-refund of ticket fares, flight cancellations, and other service-related grievances raised by airline passengers.
Reacting to the ruling, FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman, Tunji Bello, described the judgment as a significant affirmation of regulatory oversight in safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring fair market practices.
Bello stressed that consumers who pay for services are entitled to transparency, fair treatment, and appropriate redress, adding that investigations by the Commission are administrative in nature and do not constitute a determination of liability.
“The judgment provides clarity on our mandate and reinforces the importance of cooperation with lawful regulatory processes,” Bello said.
He further urged businesses operating in Nigeria to strengthen their internal complaint resolution mechanisms and engage constructively with regulators to address consumer concerns promptly.
The FCCPC reiterated its commitment to acting within the confines of the law to protect consumers, promote competition, and build trust in critical sectors such as aviation.
