FCCPC wins court case against Air Peace on ticket refund, others

From Fred Ezeh, Abuja

Federal High Court, Abuja, has dismissed a suit filed by a local airline operator, Air Peace Limited, challenging the authority of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to investigate consumer complaints, and issue summons in the exercise of its statutory mandate.

Air Peace, had approached the court to challenge the FCCPC’s authority to investigate consumer complaints and issue summons in the exercise of its statutory mandate.

FCCPC Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, in a statement, on Monday, confirmed that Justice James Omotosho, in the ruling, affirmed FCCPC powers to investigate consumer complaints.

The judgment affirmed the Commission’s powers under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018 (FCCPA) to receive complaints, assess matters brought before it, and take appropriate lawful steps, including investigation where necessary.

The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Mr. Tunji Bello, welcomed the judgment, adding that it provides useful clarity on the importance of regulatory oversight in protecting consumers and promoting fair market practices.

He noted that the matter arose from complaints relating to unrefunded ticket fares, cancelled flights, and other service concerns affecting passengers.

Mr. Bello reiterated that consumers who pay for services are entitled to fair treatment, transparency, and redress in accordance with applicable law.

He further emphasised that investigation is an administrative process intended to establish facts and determine whether further action is warranted, and does not amount to a finding of liability or wrongdoing.

He said the Commission was committed to engaging all market participants in a fair, professional, and transparent manner, while ensuring due process at every stage of its proceedings.

He thus encouraged businesses operating in Nigeria to cooperate with lawful regulatory processes and to maintain effective complaint resolution systems that address consumer issues promptly and fairly.

He maintained that the FCCPC will continue to act within its statutory mandate to protect consumers, promote competitive markets, and strengthen confidence in essential service sectors, including aviation.