BY KHALID IDRIS DOYA, Bauchi
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has called on all consumers in Bauchi state to report any form of suspected price gouging by any seller in the state.
The acting executive vice chairman of the Commission, Dr Adamu Ahmed Abdullahi, who made this known during a day sensitisation conference with traditional leaders in Bauchi Emir’s palace.
He assured consumers across the country that it will ensure they get value for their money by monitoring the price hikes in markets across the state and country at large in order to protect them from being exploited by business owners.
The FCCPC boss said the Commission has been conducting advocacy and public awareness initiatives concerning price hike and other unjust trade practices in markets.
According to him, the Commission was in the state to sensitise relevant stakeholders on their rights and help them recognise fake products and where to report their complaints.
Dr Adamu said FCCPC remains committed to promoting fair competition, protecting consumers, and fostering a regulated marketplace and encouraging active participation in reporting any violations.
Responding, the Emir of Bauchi Dr Rilwanu Suleiman Adam, represented by Sarkin Yakin Bauchi, Aliyu Yakubu Lame, said the outrageous hike in price of commodities and food hoarding in the market space is what should be discouraged and preach as a bad norm in the society hence the need for religious leaders active participation in preaching against.
The Emir assured of his commitment, dedication and support to the commission for the desired goals.
Speaking on quality issues the principal scientific officer of the commission Nimatullah Braimah said, a consumer has the right to reject or return products after purchase and realised it has expired or been exposed to sunlight for too long and other substandard products.
Also, while highlighting the responsibility of the commission, the Director consumer Education Mal. Yahaya Garba kundal listed some of the rights of a consumer which includes the right to return goods after purchase, right to cancel advance booking, right to sales record, right to safe good quality products, right to choose and examine goods among others.
In a related development the FCCPC met with religious leaders to Advocate for fairness in business dealings between a consumer and business owners to bring succour to consumers in the market space.across the state.
