The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has welcomed the judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja affirming its statutory powers to investigate consumer complaints, following the dismissal of a suit filed by Air Peace.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, the agency said the ruling delivered by Justice James Omotosho provides clarity on its authority to carry out investigations and issue summons in line with its mandate.
According to the Commission, the court upheld its powers under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018, which empowers it to receive complaints, assess cases, and take necessary lawful steps to protect consumers.
“The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission notes the judgment delivered by the Federal High Court, Abuja, on Monday, 20 April 2026, dismissing the suit filed by Air Peace Limited challenging the Commission’s authority to investigate consumer complaints and issue summons in the exercise of its statutory mandate,” the statement said.
“The judgment, delivered by Justice James Omotosho, affirms the Commission’s powers under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018, to receive complaints, assess matters brought before it, and take appropriate lawful steps, including investigation where necessary.”
The Federal High Court in Abuja ruled in favour of the Commission, confirming its authority to investigate companies and summon them over consumer-related complaints.
Reacting to the decision, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Tunji Bello, described the judgment as an important affirmation of regulatory oversight in Nigeria’s marketplace.
“We welcome this judgment, which provides useful clarity on the importance of regulatory oversight in protecting consumers and promoting fair market practices,” Bello said.
“It affirms the Commission’s authority to receive complaints, review them, and take appropriate steps where necessary, in accordance with the law.”
He explained that the case stemmed from complaints by airline passengers over issues such as unrefunded ticket fares, cancelled flights, and other service-related concerns.
According to Bello, the ruling reinforces the principle that consumers who pay for services deserve fair treatment, transparency, and access to redress.
“Consumers who pay for services deserve fair treatment and accountability. This judgement strengthens our resolve to ensure that their rights are protected at all times,” he said.
The FCCPC boss also clarified that investigations conducted by the Commission should not be interpreted as a declaration of guilt against any company.
“Investigation is an administrative process intended to establish facts and determine whether further action is warranted. It does not amount to a finding of liability or wrongdoing,” Bello added.
He reiterated the Commission’s commitment to professionalism, fairness, and due process in all its engagements with businesses.
“We remain committed to engaging all market participants in a fair, professional, and transparent manner, while ensuring due process at every stage of our proceedings,” he said.
Bello further urged companies operating in Nigeria to cooperate with lawful regulatory processes and strengthen their internal complaint resolution systems.
“It is important for businesses to maintain effective complaint resolution mechanisms that address consumer issues promptly and fairly. This is critical for building trust in the marketplace,” he stated.
The Commission maintained that it would continue to operate within its mandate to protect consumers, promote competition, and enhance confidence in essential service sectors, including aviation.
Established under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018, the FCCPC serves as Nigeria’s primary agency responsible for protecting consumer rights and ensuring fair competition across various industries.
In recent years, the aviation sector has recorded a surge in passenger complaints, particularly regarding flight delays, cancellations, and refund processes, prompting increased regulatory scrutiny.
The court’s decision is expected to strengthen the Commission’s enforcement powers and encourage greater compliance among service providers.
Last month, the Commission also concluded investigations into high airfares charged by airlines during the 2025 Yuletide travel season.
