The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has cautioned traders in Lagos State against selling substandard goods and arbitrarily increasing prices of commodities.
During a market sensitisation visit, the FCCPC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Mr Tunji Bello, represented by Principal Officer Bridget Etim, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to enforcing consumer protection laws as contained in the FCCPA 2018.
The Commission uncovered incidents at Daleko Market, where expired rice was allegedly re-bagged and sold under premium brand labels.
At Mile 12 Market, officers found altered weighing scales, under-weighing, re-packaging of spoilt vegetables, and possible price-fixing of essential items such as yam and pepper. In Alaba International Market, the team noted the sale of counterfeit electronics, misleading warranty claims, and coordinated pricing systems.
“These are not minor issues,” Bello said. “They harm household income, compromise consumer safety, and erode public confidence.”
He urged traders to uphold fair practices, resolve complaints promptly, and cooperate with authorities to eliminate exploitation.
Responding, Chairman of Mile 12 Market, Alhaji Shehu Jibril, raised concerns over high food transport costs and called for government intervention, including provision of CNG trucks and improved security for farmers. He stated that transporting goods from Kano to Lagos had become increasingly expensive.
At Alaba International Market, Chief Camilus Amajuoyi, Chairman of the Amalgamated Council of Sections, denied claims that the market was a hub for fake products. He noted that many dealers now focused on Nigerian-made electronics.
“We are ready to work with the FCCPC to expose any trader dealing in fake goods,” he said.
(NAN)