FCCPC discovers deceptive weight on bags of rice in Abuja stores

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) said it discovered a deceptive claim about the weight of a bag of rice at the Garki Modern Market in Abuja.

Ag. Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of FCCPC, Dr. Adamu Abdullahi, disclosed this in a statement on Friday after the Commission conducted a targeted enforcement operation at the Garki Modern Market on Wednesday.

Abdullahi said that the enforcement operation 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,” stated Abdullahi on FCCPC’s X handle.

“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.”

Consequently, the Commission has issued summons to the perpetrators who are required to appear before the Commission and provide written undertakings to cease these deceptive practices.

Abdullahi said a Mutual Supervisory Understanding (MSU) will also be issued to monitor compliance.

The FCCPC boss encouraged consumers to demand and insist on full value for money paid on products in the market.

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

He said in accordance with Section 125 of the FCCPA, businesses must not make false or deceptive representations about material facts to consumers.

Abudllahi quoted section 138 that further places liability on manufacturers, importers, distributors, and suppliers for breach of implied obligations by law, including product claims.

He assured Nigerians that the Commission is committed to safeguarding consumer rights and will continue to relentlessly pursue fairness in the marketplace.