FCCPC hails court ruling affirming its powers to probe airlines

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission 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 its Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, the Commission 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.

The agency noted that 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 statement read, “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 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 PidomNigeria had reported that the Federal High Court in Abuja affirmed the powers of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to investigate consumer complaints and summon companies, dismissing a suit filed by Air Peace challenging the agency’s authority.

Reacting to the decision, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Tunji Bello, described the judgment as an important affirmation of regulatory oversight in Nigeria’s marketplace.

Bello said, “We welcome this judgment, which provides useful clarity on the importance of regulatory oversight in protecting consumers and promoting fair market practices.

“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 arose from complaints by airline passengers bordering on unrefunded ticket fares, cancelled flights, and other service-related issues.

According to him, the ruling reinforces the principle that consumers who pay for services are entitled to fair treatment, transparency, and redress.

“Consumers who pay for services deserve fair treatment and accountability. This judgment strengthens our resolve to ensure that their rights are protected at all times,” Bello added.

The FCCPC boss also clarified that investigations 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,” he said.

He reiterated the Commission’s commitment to professionalism 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,” Bello stated.

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 said.

The Commission maintained that it would continue to act within its mandate to protect consumers, promote competition, and enhance confidence in essential service sectors, including aviation.

The FCCPC, established under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018, is Nigeria’s primary agency responsible for protecting consumer rights and ensuring fair competition.

In recent years, the aviation sector has witnessed a rise in passenger complaints, particularly over delays, cancellations, and refund processes, prompting increased regulatory attention.

The court’s decision is likely to strengthen the Commission’s enforcement powers and encourage greater compliance among service providers.

Last month, the Commission concluded investigations into the high airfares charged by airlines during the 2025 Yuletide period.