The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission and the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency have entered into a partnership to tackle rising consumer complaints, especially in the real estate sector. The agreement, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding, is also expected to address issues in transportation, including airline operations, as well as other sectors within Lagos State.
Speaking during the signing ceremony in Abuja, the Executive Vice Chairman of FCCPC, Tunji Bello, explained that collaboration between federal and state agencies is essential for effective consumer protection. He noted that many complaints originate within states and local communities, making it necessary to work closely with state-level institutions.
Bello pointed out that the commission has received numerous complaints relating to housing and real estate, stressing the need for stronger cooperation across agencies. According to him, many consumer challenges are immediate and local in nature, requiring quick and coordinated responses.
”Today’s event is significant because it reflects a shared commitment to improving the daily experience of consumers and strengthening the fair business conduct through practical decision and cooperation.
”Consumer protection is no longer a narrow subject.
”State institutions are therefore indispensable partners in building a credible and accessible consumer protection framework across the Federation.
”As markets become more sophisticated, complaints also become more complex.
”Consumers now face issues that cut across jurisdictions and sectors. This reality requires regulators to be coordinated, responsive and forward-looking. That is why this partnership matters,” he said.
He also referenced a 2023 Supreme Court ruling which clarified that urban and regional matters fall under the authority of state governments rather than the federal government. This, he said, reinforces the need for closer collaboration.
”I therefore encourage close operational cooperation at that level, particularly in the areas of complaints and the intelligence sharing, consumer education, and coordinated interventions where necessary,” he added.
The General Manager of LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo, said the agreement would help tackle numerous complaints in the transportation sector, especially those involving airlines. He noted that while such issues fall largely under FCCPC, the state agency has already taken steps to assist affected consumers.
Solebo revealed that the agency has successfully recovered over N40 million and 10,000 dollars for customers from both local and international airlines. However, he added that the agency’s authority has recently been challenged in some cases.
”We are here to sign this MOU. I can’t wait to go back to Lagos and shout to all Lagosians that we have more powers; that our big brother have decided to join forces with us.
”And we can assure you that with this collaboration and synergy, we are going to work assiduously to ensure that the rights of consumers in Lagos State are not only protected, but will stop the issue of exploitation and unscrupulous trade practices,” he said.
