Consumer Rights Infraction: FCCPC threatens stern action

THE last may not have been heard about a recent alleged discriminatory act, by KFC, against a consumer, Bola Daniel, at the fast food’s Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, especially with the Commission in charge of Consumer Rights Protection, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission ((FCCPC), condemning the act, while threatening stern action against the company, perpetrators of similar discriminatory act.

Reacting to the incident, the Commission condemned any form of discrimination against consumers in the country, especially those based on disability, noting that the latest incident was not only unlawful, but also inhuman.

The Commission stated that it is duty-bound to enforce all enactments aimed at protecting consumers, including those with disabilities.

The Acting Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Dr. Adamu Abdullahi, stated that the essence of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) is to stress the obligations of the Commission to eliminate practices detrimental to competition and Consumer welfare, and safeguard consumer interests.

He, therefore, expressed regrets that discriminatory action, as witnessed at KFC’s outlet would not be tolerated by the Commission since they undermined the spirits and letters of FCCPA.

“Under the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018 Section 1 unequivocally prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in any manner or circumstance. The FCCPC mandated by the FCCPA, is duty-bound to enforce all enactments aimed at protecting consumers, including those with disabilities.

“Discrimination against persons with disabilities is not only unlawful but also inhuman and contrary to the values that we, as a society, hold dear.

“The incident serves as a stark reminder to all businesses operating in Nigeria that consumer protection laws apply equally, regardless of a customer’s ability,” he stated.

The Commission therefore called on consumers, who had faced similar discriminatory practices in the past to come forward and report them through the Commission’s designated channels, while reiterating its commitment to promoting a fair and inclusive marketplace for all Nigerians.

The agency also assured of its team’s readiness to work closely with relevant authorities to ensure appropriate redress for the aggrieved consumer, while also making sure that the outlet in question takes full responsibility for its actions.

Akin Adewakun