The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a stern warning to traders and business owners in Lagos State to respond promptly to invitations and summons from regulatory agencies or risk facing legal consequences.
The warning was given by the South-West Zonal Coordinator of the FCCPC, Dr. Olubunmi Otti, during the sealing of a solar company, CASCO Electronic Limited, located at Alaba International Market along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.
The enforcement action followed a complaint over the sale of an allegedly defective solar battery purchased in February 2025.
According to Dr. Otti, the Commission commenced an investigation into the matter and invited the company to appear before it on several occasions, but the firm failed to honour the invitations.
“Don’t ignore any letter from the Federal Government, especially when you have a business in Nigeria. When you receive an FCCPC letter, just appear before the Commission. FCCPC is not against any business in Nigeria, but we want you to conduct your business in an ethical manner where consumers are satisfied and businesses can also thrive,” she said.
Dr. Otti explained that the enforcement action forms part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to protect consumers and ensure compliance with consumer protection laws.
She stressed that the action was not intended to punish businesses but to safeguard consumers and encourage responsible business practices.
“The FCCPC has today proceeded to seal these premises. The Commission wants to use this opportunity to advise consumers that whenever they want to buy any product, they should exercise due diligence, patronise reputable outlets, collect receipts and follow due process before committing their money,” she stated.
She also urged traders to refrain from dealing in unsafe and substandard products.
Speaking on the development, President of the Industrial Dealers Association, Mr. Okpara Uchenna, said the association places high priority on consumer protection and supports regulatory actions aimed at safeguarding buyers.
“We cannot stop them from carrying out their duties because it has to do with protecting consumers. Alaba is not known for such issues. The company is a reputable one, but I believe they may have one or two issues. The major problem is that they refused to appear before the FCCPC,” he said.
Reacting to the sealing of the premises, the General Manager of CASCO Electronic Limited, Mr. Tochuchwu Samson, claimed he did not receive any of the notices allegedly sent by the Commission and described the action as surprising.
“I did not receive the several letters they claimed to have served on me. I am a law-abiding citizen. If I had seen any letter, I would have complied. I understand the importance of official correspondence, and I see this situation as an embarrassment to the company,” he said.
Mr. Samson appealed for an amicable resolution of the dispute and pledged the company’s willingness to cooperate with the Commission.
Meanwhile, armed security personnel were present at the premises during the enforcement exercise.
Reporting by Eunice Olile