FCCPC: Rice traders exploiting consumers through false weight claims

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) says it conducted a targeted enforcement operation at the Garki modern market in Abuja.

Adamu Abdullahi, acting executive vice chairman (EVC) and chief executive officer (CEO) of FCCPC disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday.

Abdullahi said this action is part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to protect consumer rights and interests, as mandated by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018, particularly under Sections 17(1)(s), 116(2), 124, 125, 138, and 155.

He said the law, in section 125, stipulates businesses must not make false or deceptive representations about material facts to consumers.

The EVC said section 138 further places liability on manufacturers, importers, distributors, and suppliers for breach of implied obligations by law, including product claims.

According to Abdullahi, FCCPC officials discovered that 25kg and 50kg bags of rice did not weigh the claimed sizes, noting discrepancies between the weight claims and the actual content.

He added that such practices not only violate the FCCPA but also exploit consumers through deceptive means.

“On Wednesday, March 27, 2024, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) conducted a targeted enforcement operation at the Garki Modern Market in Abuja,” he said.

“This action was part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to protect consumer rights and interests, as mandated by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, particularly under Sections 17(l)(s), 116(2), 124, 125, 138, and 155.

“The operation aimed to verify the accuracy of product claims on 25kg and 50kg bags of rice.

“Our findings revealed discrepancies between the weight claims and the actual content. Such practices not only violate the FCCPA but also exploit consumers through deceptive means.”

Abdullahi said a notice of summon has been issued to the perpetrators to provide written undertakings to cease these deceptive practices, urging consumers to demand and insist on full value for money during the festive season.

“Consequently, we have issued summons to the perpetrators. They are required to appear before the commission and provide written undertakings to cease these deceptive practices. A Mutual Supervisory Understanding (MSU) will also be issued to monitor compliance,” he said.

“As we approach the festive season, like every other season, the FCCPC encourages consumers to demand and insist on full value for money.

“We advise verifying the weight of rice packages to align with stated claims and report any inconsistencies through the complaint tab on our website (www.fccpc.gov.ng).”

Abdullahi said FCCPC is committed to safeguarding consumer rights and will continue to relentlessly pursue fairness in the marketplace.