The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding consumers, promoting fair competition, and ensuring the safety of products available in the market.
Dr. Adamu Abdullahi, Acting Executive Chairman of the FCCPC, made this assurance in an interview following a surveillance operation conducted by the commission at several steel companies in Lagos and Ogun states on Friday.
Dr. Abdullahi revealed that intelligence and surveillance reports had flagged certain companies for engaging in anti-competitive behaviour. “This prompted us to visit three of these companies to scrutinise their operations, review their records, and analyse ten of their products,” he explained. “Our goal is to uncover any false, misleading, or deceptive practices that could be detrimental to consumers.”
One major issue identified during the inspections was the inconsistency in product specifications. “For instance, consumers who purchase 12mm rods often receive 10mm rods instead, which contributes to the frequent building collapses we witness,” noted Abdullahi. “Ensuring the safety of our citizens is a paramount responsibility, and such deceptive practices are unacceptable.”
Dr. Abdullahi stressed the importance of thorough inspections and maintaining transparency. “We are closely examining their processes to detect any potential cutting of corners. If we uncover evidence of such practices, we will enforce the law to its fullest extent,” he concluded.