Nura Bala Ajingi, Kano
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has carried out an enforcement operation in parts of Kano State, targeting retailers involved in the deceptive sale of underweight and shortened fabric materials to unsuspecting consumers.
Speaking during the operation, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC said the exercise followed weeks of discreet market surveillance and intelligence gathering, which revealed that some retailers were selling fabrics below the standard length or measurement indicated, while still charging customers full price.
He described the act as a clear violation of consumer rights under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.
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Represented by the Director of Surveillance and Investigation, Mrs. Boladale Adeyinka, the FCCPC boss explained that Section 123(1) of the FCCPA prohibits any retailer, trader, or supplier from making false, misleading, or deceptive representations to consumers, especially concerning the quantity or price of goods supplied.
She added that Section 125(1) also forbids any undertaking from engaging in conduct that implies false or misleading representations about material facts to consumers.
The Commission expressed concern that such unfair practices not only exploit consumers but also distort market competition by undermining honest traders who comply with lawful standards.
It warned that such acts could drive legitimate businesses out of the market, limit consumer choices, and encourage anti-competitive behavior.
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According to the FCCPC, Sections 27 and 28 of the Act empower the Commission to enter and search premises and seize relevant materials or documents where violations are suspected.
Acting on these powers, the Commission has sealed several shops suspected of engaging in the fraudulent practice and confiscated samples of the implicated materials for further verification and testing.
The FCCPC emphasized that the sale of underweight or shortened fabric materials amounts to deceptive representation and violates consumers’ rights to fair and honest dealings as provided under Sections 120 and 124(1) of the Act.
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The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent marketplace, protecting consumers from fraudulent activities, and promoting trust and integrity in Nigeria’s retail sector.
It further warned retailers, distributors, and suppliers to ensure that all goods sold to consumers conform to declared descriptions, measurements, and standards.
Consumers were also urged to remain vigilant, assert their rights, and report any suspected cases of deceptive trade practices through the Commission’s official complaint channels.
Shedding more light on the operation, the FCCPC Legal Officer for the Northwest Zone, Mr. Jamilu Muhammad, said the exercise is part of ongoing efforts to rid markets and stores of adulterated and substandard goods.
Stores sealed were located at Ajasa, Ibrahim Taiwo Roads, Gandun Albasa and Sharada industrial area.
