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The Federal Competition & Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has taken decisive actions against an Abuja-based Chinese Supermarket and MultiChoice, a major satellite television service, for violating Nigerian laws and consumer rights.
In an interview with Channels TV on Sunday, the acting Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, Adamu Abdullahi, revealed that the Chinese Supermarket, owned by Liu Bei, was found to be labelling products in Yen, accepting only the Chinese currency, and discriminating against Nigerian customers by refusing them entry into the facility. This is a clear violation of Nigerian law, which requires all businesses operating in the country to label products in the local currency, the Naira.
Abdullahi stated that the Commission has instructed the owner to display an open-to-all-customers notice and to label products in the Nigerian currency, as required by law. He warned that the Commission is considering appropriate sanctions, including a fine of N10 million and 10% of the company’s last year’s turnover, for the violations. The Commission is also considering other measures to ensure that the supermarket complies with Nigerian laws and regulations.
Regarding MultiChoice, Abdullahi said the company has submitted a four-page letter explaining the reasons for the recent price hike, effective May 1, 2024. The Commission will review the letter, in conjunction with the Nigerian Communications Commission and the National Broadcasting Commission, to determine if the reasons are justifiable. If not, the Commission will take appropriate action to protect consumers from abuse of dominant market position. The Commission is concerned that the price hike may be excessive and unfair to consumers, and is determined to ensure that MultiChoice complies with Nigerian laws and regulations.
Abdullahi also updated on enforcement compliance at the 4u and Sahad stores, noting that the companies have acknowledged their mistakes and achieved 95% compliance with the Commission’s directives. The Commission has been working closely with the companies to ensure that they comply with Nigerian laws and regulations, and is pleased with the progress made so far.
The FCCPC’s actions demonstrate its commitment to protecting Nigerian consumers and promoting fair competition in the market. The Commission is determined to ensure that all businesses operating in Nigeria comply with the law and respect the rights of consumers.