FCCPC, EFCC partner to protect consumers from exploitation

From Fred Ezeh, Abuja

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have pledged to strengthen their collaboration to protect Nigerian consumers from exploitation.

The commitment was made during a courtesy visit by the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Mr. Tunji Bello, to the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, on Thursday.

This is coming barely a week after FCCPC announced its desire to engage market leaders across the country to curb the exploitative pricing of consumer goods.

Mr. Bello expressed concern over the increasing cases of arbitrary price hikes, emphasising the need for a joint effort to address the issue.

He commended the EFCC’s expertise in surveillance and investigation, and sought its support in combating the unfair trade practices.

The EFCC boss, Mr. Olukoyede, in response, acknowledged the challenges faced by consumers and assured the FCCPC of the EFCC’s full cooperation.

He emphasised the importance of a strong partnership between the two agencies in creating a fair and equitable market for Nigerian consumers.

Both agencies agreed to intensify their joint efforts to protect consumer rights and bring perpetrators of economic crimes and unfair market practices to justice.