By FUNMILOLA GBOTEKU

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned Lagos traders against enforcing the illegal “no return, no refund” policy.

Dr Olubunmi Otti, Zonal Coordinator of the FCCPC Southwest Zone, made this remark during the inauguration of new executives of the Phone and Allied Products Dealers Association (PAPDA) on Wednesday in Lagos.

Otti said the commission was in the market to educate traders on their obligations to consumers and the consequences of violating the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.

She added that the commission was also raising awareness among consumers about their rights and responsibilities, stressing that consumer education is the first line of defence against exploitation.

“Consumer education is consumer protection. When a consumer is empowered, that is the first means of defence against market exploitation,” Otti said.

Citing the widespread “no return, no refund” policy, she emphasised that it is prohibited under Nigerian law.

“There is no such thing as ‘no return, no refund.’ If a product does not fulfill its intended purpose, the consumer has the right to return it,” she said.

She explained that when consumers lodge complaints, the commission invites businesses for mediation and ensures appropriate remedies, such as refund, replacement, or exchange, are granted.

Otti added that where businesses refuse to comply, the law empowers the commission to impose fines, withdraw products, seize goods, prosecute offenders, or shut down erring businesses.

She further stressed that the commission’s mandate is to promote fair competition in the Nigerian market and protect consumers’ interests.

“We want to work together in the interest of consumers in Nigeria. The message is clear: quality products and quality services. After that, there will be no issues,” she said.

Otti called for collective responsibility among traders and market executives to ensure compliance and maintain a thriving market environment.

She said the sensitisation campaign would extend to other markets, including Alaba Market and the Trade Fair Complex, across the Southwest Zone.

Otti urged consumers to speak out whenever their rights are violated.

“When your rights are violated, do not just say ‘you give it to God.’ Bring your complaints to the FCCPC. The law empowers us to protect you,” she said.

She disclosed that thousands of complaints were received monthly in the Southwest Zone alone through the commission’s portal, adding that more awareness is needed to encourage voluntary business compliance. (NAN)