Justice James Kolawole Omotosho
The Federal High Court has dismissed the suit filed by Air Peace Limited challenging the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission’s- FCCPC’s- authority to investigate consumer complaints and issue summons in the course of its statutory duties.
Justice James Kolawole Omotosho, who presided at the court hearing reiterated the Commission’s powers under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018 (FCCPA), and affirmed its mandate to receive complaints, assess issues brought before it, and take lawful steps, including investigations where the Commission finds it necessary.
Speaking on the ruling, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Barr Tunji Bello said the judgment reinforced the importance of regulatory oversight in safeguarding consumers and promoting fair market practices.
Bello explained in a media statement that the case stemmed from complaints related to ticket refunds, flight cancellations, and other service issues affecting passengers.
He stressed that “consumers who pay for services are entitled to fairness, transparency, and appropriate redress in line with the law”. He added that the Commission’s investigations are administrative processes aimed at establishing facts and determines whether further action is required and not a declaration of liability, he elucidated.
The FCCPC helmsman reminded corporate organizations prospecting in Nigeria to cooperate and operate within the lawful regulatory processes and support established complaint-resolution mechanisms to address consumer concerns promptly.
Bello added that the Commission would continue to operate within its statutory mandate to protect consumers, promote competition, and strengthen confidence in key service sectors, including aviation.
The FCCPC reiterated its commitment to engaging market participants in a fair, professional, and transparent manner while ensuring due process at all stages of its proceedings.
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