The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has extended its consumer sensitisation campaign to markets across several Area Councils in Abuja, in a bid to curb unfair practices among traders.
The markets visited include those in Kwali, Abaji, Kuje, and Gwagwalada Area Councils.
Speaking during the sensitisation exercise at the Kwali market on Tuesday, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the FCCPC, Mr Tunji Bello, said the initiative was part of the Commission’s commitment to engage directly with those who keep the markets functional.
Bello, who was represented by the Commission’s Principal Consumer and Business Education Officer, Mrs Bridget Etim, said the objective was to enlighten and collaborate with traders, as genuine protection is built on mutual understanding, shared responsibility, and deliberate action.
He explained that the Commission had commenced investigations and enforcement actions against several unfair practices, particularly the re-bagging and mislabelling of food items.
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“We also want to listen, learn, and act,” he stated.
“Let me be clear that the FCCPC has already commenced surveillance and enforcement across several markets.
“The Commission is investigating and taking action against the re-bagging and mislabelling of food items.
“This occurs when old, expired, substandard, or unsafe goods are repackaged and falsely presented as fresh, genuine, or popular brands.
“This practice constitutes fraud, and is widespread in the sale of staples like rice and other fast-moving consumer goods.
“It deceives consumers and exposes them to serious health risks while undermining honest traders who play by the rules.
“Another concern is the practice of price fixing by market associations, and the Commission is also addressing the issue of inaccurate measurements and weights,” he said.
Bello encouraged traders to report any suspicious or dishonest activity by fellow traders.
“If you see something that is wrong, such as fake products, price-fixing, or short measures, report it.
“The Commission will treat such reports with utmost confidentiality,” he assured.
He noted that transparent markets promote business growth, fair pricing benefits consumers, and responsible trade fosters stronger communities.
In his response, the Chairman of the Market Association in Kwali Area Council, Mr Sani Ibrahim, expressed appreciation for the Commission’s approach of engaging with traders before taking regulatory actions.
“We truly appreciate this day. We are thankful and very grateful that the government has remembered us, coming to us, standing with us, and showing us support.
“We need government backing; the government should be engaging with us, guiding us, showing us the way, and helping us to grow,” he said.
The sensitisation drive is part of a broader campaign by the FCCPC to promote fair trade practices and safeguard consumer rights across the country.
