The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has formally launched an investigation into service delivery violations against GT Bank, MTN, and Air Peace.
This development shows a rare investigation against leading players in the banking, telecommunications, and aviation sectors.
According to a statement seen by Investors King on Sunday, the consumers’ protection body said the inquiry came following widespread consumer complaints against the three companies.
Customers have lamented service disruptions, although these companies have acknowledged this and promised effective service delivery.
However, FCCPC says the inquisitions, which will begin on December 3rd, 4th, and 5th respectively, are intended to address issues of poor service delivery, exploitative practices, and potential consumer rights violations.
In the banking sector, the FCCPC will engage Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) over reports of network failures that hinder customers from accessing their funds or using banking applications.
In the telecommunications sector, MTN Nigeria faces questions regarding persistent complaints of undelivered data services, unexplained data depletion, and inadequate customer care.
Similarly, Air Peace Limited will address allegations of exploitative ticket pricing, including significant price hikes for advance bookings on certain domestic routes.
According to the statement signed by Ondaje Ijagwu, FCCPC’s Director Corporate Affairs, these inquiries are being conducted under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, specifically Sections 17, 18, 32, 33, 80, 110, 111, 112, and 113, which empower the FCCPC to investigate and resolve practices that undermine consumer rights, disrupt markets, or create unfair competition.
“The FCCPC’s engagement with these companies provides a platform to address consumer concerns, clarify business practices, and enforce compliance with regulatory standards,” the statement explains.
Following this development, these companies will be required to appear before the commission on designated days to provide information and responses to enable the commission to make determinations and resolve pending issues promptly.
“This action reflects the Commission’s commitment to safeguarding consumer rights, fostering a fair marketplace and ensuring accountability across all sectors,”
“We urge consumers to continue to report instances of poor service delivery or exploitative practices to the FCCPC through its official channels,” the statement added.
