By Muhammad Sani Muazu
Are you aware that as a consumer, you have the right to demand a refund, replacement or repair if a product you purchased fails to meet standards?
Many of us have been left frustrated and feeling helpless when a product doesn’t live up to its promise.
When you insist on your warranty rights and you are told to go to hell, don’t bother, go to FCCPC.
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission is changing that narrative.
In a move to empower consumers, the commission has organized a sensitization conference for traditional rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders, educating them on the rights of consumers and how to report any infringement.
The acting Executive Vice Chairman of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Dr. Adamu Abdullahi, emphasized that the commission is responsible for protecting consumer rights and preventing market monopolies.
The commission also checks for abuse of dominance, ensuring companies don’t exploit consumers, and reviews acquisitions and mergers to prevent negative market impacts.
Dr. Abdullahi highlighted the commission’s focus on consumer protection, which led to the conference.
The commission has a surveillance and investigation department that monitors the market and enforces sanctions when necessary.
The quality assurance development department ensures products and services meet quality standards.
Dr. Abdullahi explained that traditional rulers and religious leaders were chosen as ambassadors to disseminate the message to the grassroots.
He commended the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Dr. Rilwanu Sulaiman Adamu, for his support and advocacy for consumer protection, citing his efforts to encourage marketers to keep prices low.
Regarding price control, Dr. Abdullahi clarified that the commission doesn’t regulate prices but ensures a level playing field and fair markets.
The traditional rulers, comprising district heads in the Bauchi emirate, asked questions and received answers, promising to share their knowledge with their subjects for the community’s benefit.
